Viridor has revealed plans for a multimillion pound energy recovery facility (ERF) south of Larkhall in South Lanarkshire, Scotland.

The Overwood ERF is planned to transform up to 330,000 tonnes per annum of non-recyclable municipal, commercial and industrial waste into energy in the form of heat and electricty. The proposed development is to be located on land adjoining the existing Dovesdale logistics and waste management complex which already has planning permission for an ERF facility.

In direct response to the Scottish government’s zero waste strategy and forthcoming ban on landfilling of food, paper, garden and other biodegradable household waste by 2025, the proposed ERF will be similar to Viridor’s Dunbar ERF. The facility will generate around 34.1MW of electricity, of which 30.7MWe will be exported to the national grid - enough electricity to power around 82,000 homes. 

A Proposal of Application Notice (PoAN) has been submitted to South Lanarkshire Council kick-starting a consultation programme. Virtual public exhibitions are to be held over the coming months, allowing interested parties the opportunity to learn more about the proposed facility.

Like all Viridor ERFs, the plant would be designed to be Combined Heat and Power (CHP) enabled so that heat in the form of steam or hot water could be exported to other local users as future opportunities arise.

“The proposed Overwood Energy Recovery Facility is a state-of-the-art development that will play a vital role in diverting our everyday waste from landfill,” said Viridor Planning Manager (North and Scotland), Grant Scott. “Over the coming months, we look forward to presenting these plans to the local community. Whilst the ongoing restrictions regarding COVID-19 will impact how this is done, we have put together a comprehensive digital engagement programme and welcome everyone to get involved, ask questions and importantly provide us with feedback.”