I new 33MW CHP power plant is currently being discussed in the area, adjacent to the gas pressure reduction station, near Dark Lane. The facility is being proposed by Blue-NG.
Whilst the proposal is currently at the pre-application stage it is understood that some of the heat will be used to save energy at the gas reduction plant. The electricity generated will be sold to the National Grid.
CHP plants can be over 90% efficient dependent upon the heat utilisation. At this stage the heat utilisation effficiency has not been made clear.
The initial proposal is that the plant will use rape seed oil as a fuel.
In the medium term Blue NG will use biogas from agricultural or household waste (the engine will have adapters fitted to be able to burn biogas) and they state they are actively engaged in the search for 2nd and even 3rd third generation biofuels.
The facility will be housed in a large building.
The area where the plans for this power plant are being considered, is one of the few remaining beauty spots in the Greater Manchester Area. I am astounded at the fact that this is being considered in a greenbelt area. There appears to be no thought as to what this will do to the environment and the surrounding community. There are plenty of brownbelt areas where this plant can be built, just because this plant with be proving a more environment friendly fuel source does not mean that it is right to destroy a countryside to build it. The entire thought of what is being proposed and even remotely considered by Bolton council makes me feel sick to the pit of my stomach. Why is it that businesses have exemptions from legislation that is in place to protect these areas. The whole prospect is hypocritical!