A proposal has been submitted to build a facility that would turn fruit waste into renewable energy at the Del Monte site in Wisbech, Cambridgeshire, England.
If approved, the anaerobic digestion plant would generate biomethane for the national gas grid and capture carbon dioxide for use in the food and drink industry.
The scheme would use around 28,000 tonnes of fruit residue from the factory each year, alongside 20,000 tonnes of straw and 15,000 tonnes of water.
Del Monte currently transports its fruit waste to facilities further afield. The company said the new plant would allow processing to take place locally and support national renewable energy targets. It added the project would also reduce reliance on fertilisers made from fossil fuels.
Cambridgeshire County Council has raised objections, citing concerns about the proposed drainage system. In particular, officials warned that the absence of an outfall for the surface water lagoon could pose risks if the site malfunctioned or were decommissioned.
According to the BBC, the facility would be built on an undeveloped part of the factory grounds off Weasenham Lane.
Fenland District Council is due to consider the application.
Plans submitted for Wisbech plant to turn waste fruit into renewable gas
