Rugeley plant conversion plans scrapped

Plans worth millions of pounds that would have secured Rugeley Power Plant's long-term future have been scrapped.

The 1GW coal plant, located in Staffordshire, England, was to be converted into a biomass energy generator. The project would have required three million tonnes of wood pellets being transported to the site each year with 61 train deliveries per week, up from 26.

However, GDF Suez – the company running the plant – has confirmed that the project has been abandoned and the facility will continue to operate using coal.

The development plans came in response to the government's target to increase renewable energy and reduce CO2 emissions.

It would have used the existing power plant facilities and new equipment required for the conversion would have been located within the existing 372-acre site.

GDF Suez issued a statement in November, stating: 'After careful consideration GDF SUEZ has decided not to proceed with the Rugeley Biomass project. Rugeley will remain a key coal generator within the UK energy supply market.'