Here are a few examples of the successful sustainability initiatives we’re involved with in the local areas around our UK sites.
Drax Power Station, North Yorkshire
Each year, independent scientists conduct an ecological survey across the site – including our 30-hectare Skylark Nature Reserve – and advise on our nature action projects and species monitoring. These surveys have encouraged us to install a hibernation space for grass snakes, nesting boxes for bats and for birds, beehives, and ponds for a variety of wildlife.
The power plant has also established wildflower meadows, invested in facilities for walkers and birdwatchers, and hosted the Yorkshire Swan Rescue Hospital on site for over 15 years.
STEM outreach activities
Our Community and Education team delivers science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) education to local schools and colleges, including 15 ‘cluster’ schools in nearby towns and villages. In 2024, the team delivered 53 outreach sessions, reaching more than 3,000 students aged 7 to 18.
“We are loving the links with the Drax team. Meeting Sparky the Robot was fantastic for us all! Your enrichment and support for our science curriculum has been brilliant, and the engagement has been first class. Thank you so much.” Jon Watson Headteacher, Carlton Primary School, Selby
Highlights in 2024
| How many schools? | How many sessions? | How many benefit? | |
|---|---|---|---|
| STEM outreach, North Yorkshire | 15 | 53 | 3,000+ students |
| Cruachan Power Station, Visitor Centre | 14 | N/A | 17,000 visitors |
Hydro power stations, Scotland
At our Galloway hydro power stations, we’re working closely with the Loch Ken Trust. Our campaign aims to raise awareness about avoiding the spread of invasive species across bodies of water in the area. Installing washing stations at key locations allows loch users such as paddleboarders and kayakers to clean their boots and equipment before moving on to other watercourses.
At Cruachan Power Station in the western highlands, our biodiversity surveys monitor the species – including several with protected status – living in the surrounding habitats. This data has helped us to define the baseline for our nature positive actions in the area.
A part of the community
In 2024, our team at Cruachan Power Station’s Visitor Centre welcomed more than 17,000 people to the site. This included pupils from 14 local rural schools and further education establishments, who took part in STEM educational tours of the plant.
“I always enjoy my visits to Cruachan Visitor Centre. It’s a fantastic facility for the local community to have, a lovely place to meet friends in the café, and a great way to stay up to date with Drax plans.” Ian Steel, resident in Taynuilt Village
