SUEZ is developing a new anaerobic digestion (AD) facility in Northumberland to replace the legacy in-vessel composting plant at the Ellington Road Recycling and Recovery site. Designed to treat up to 50,000 tonnes of food waste annually, the plant will pre-treat waste before pasteurisation and digestion, producing biogas that will be upgraded and injected into the national gas grid. This makes the project eligible for the UK Government’s Green Gas Support Scheme via the Green Gas Levy.
Our team supported SUEZ by delivering pre-front end engineering design (PRE-FEED) and FEED studies, defining process, and physical interfaces across 10 work packages. We developed technical datasheets and specifications and evaluated recommended suppliers for each package. This groundwork enabled a robust design that integrates advanced AD technology and increases energy recovery and resource efficiency.
Heat for the process is provided by combined heat and power engines, initially using landfill gas, but ultimately using biogas from the process. The inclusion of a pasteurisation step also means the digestate will be available for use as fertiliser.
The Ellington facility is a key part of a wider network of green energy projects, helping to unlock the potential of separately collected food waste and support the UK’s transition to low-carbon energy.
The project successfully reached financial close and delivery has commenced. Our team is continuing to support SUEZ in the role of engineering, procurement and construction management (EPCM) consultant.
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