A new anaerobic digestion (AD) facility in Rugeley, Staffordshire, is progressing positively through the pre-construction phase, marking an important step forward for renewable gas generation in the region. 

The project is being developed by Upper Mills Energy, with crucial investment provided by Pinta Energy, a UK-based renewable gas company focused on developing sustainable biomethane infrastructure.

Upper Mills Energy is the UK-based developer of the Rugeley anaerobic digestion project in Staffordshire. The company is focused on delivering sustainable biomethane infrastructure that supports agricultural circularity, energy security and makes a valuable contribution to the UK's transition to low-carbon energy.

Once operational, the plant will process between 57,000 tonnes of mixed arable feedstock each year, generating approximately 1,000 m³ of biomethane per hour for injection into the national gas grid. 

The facility is designed to support agricultural circularity and contribute to the UK's transition toward low-carbon, domestically produced energy; helping to support local agricultural producers whilst supplying renewable gas into the national grid for use by homes and businesses.

PWCL has been appointed as Project Manager, coordinating all aspects of pre-construction, including design development, programme management, procurement planning and stakeholder engagement. 

The project aims to progress into the construction phase in 2026, subject to final design, procurement and permitting milestones.

As part of the development strategy, the project team is exploring the integration of carbon-capture technology, with the ambition to further reduce emissions and enhance the site's environmental performance; if implemented, this would support the wider goal of delivering a highly efficient, low-carbon bioenergy facility for Staffordshire.

Working in partnership

Pinta Energy’s investment is helping to bring forward a modern AD facility capable of supporting both regional energy demand and national renewable and clean energy objectives. 

Pinta Energy works in collaboration with trusted partners across the renewable energy sector, including Asterion Industrial Partners and Abio Energy, sharing a common vision for a cleaner and more resilient energy future.

PWCL’s appointment reflects our ongoing role in delivering complex renewable energy and infrastructure projects, combining technical understanding with hands-on project management.

Paul Winter, Founder and Director of PWCL, commented:

“Rugeley AD plant represents an exciting opportunity to deliver a high-quality renewable energy asset for the region. We’re pleased to be supporting Upper Mills Energy and Pinta Energy as the project moves through pre-construction, and we look forward to helping guide the project into delivery.”

Phil Gerrard, Business Development Director for Pinta Energy, added:

“Our focus is on bringing forward sustainable biomethane projects that support UK energy security and deliver long-term environmental value. The Rugeley plant is an important part of that mission, and we are pleased to be working with PWCL and Upper Mills Energy to progress this development.”

Finally, Michael Heenan, CEO of Pinta Energy, remarked of the project: 

“Rugeley is a strong example of how targeted investment can help unlock high-quality biomethane projects in the UK. This development supports our focus on building resilient, low-carbon gas infrastructure that strengthens energy security while delivering environmental and economic benefits. We’re pleased to be working with Upper Mills Energy and PWCL as the project moves toward construction.”

Supporting the UK’s renewable gas future

The Rugeley AD plant will play a role in meeting the UK’s growing demand for green gas, contributing to national decarbonisation targets while supporting local economic growth during construction and operation.

PWCL will continue to provide project management as the project advances toward its next development milestones.