How could it be used?
In theory SRF can be used to replace fossil fuel use in any circumstance where a plant can be built for that purpose or an existing facility can be converted to use it. SRF can also be used for generating electricity, for energy in industrial processes and for fuelling community heating and power systems.
How will the fuel be transported?
We believe that the SRF is best transported by sustainable methods of transport and therefore intend to make a rail transfer station available for the use of the waste services contractor from which they can transport the SRF. Similarly, the Authority is also seeking to make a water-side wharf on the River Lee available for the waste services contractor to use if they wish, for transporting the SRF by water.
Can the SRF be used in an area designated as an "air action zone"?
Yes, as with any site, emission levels will be regulated by the Environment Agency (EA). The EA will consider background air quality levels as part of their site assessment before issuing a regulatory permit.
Yes, as with any site, emission levels will be regulated by the Environment Agency (EA). The EA will consider background air quality levels as part of their site assessment before issuing a regulatory permit.
What will be the specification for the SRF?
The Authority’s output specification for the SRF is included within the OBC – see Table 4.12.
Can the SRF specification be enhanced by recycling less of those materials with significant calorific value?
The Authority is not in a position to commit to doing so. Potential fuel users could consider doing so if they could source the relevant material and provide a suitable facility for blending the material.
Will the Authority consider the option of developing its own outlet for the SRF?
We have no plans to do so.
Will the Authority evaluate local energy recovery more favourably?
The Authority's evaluation criteria will include an assessment of the carbon impact of each proposal using WRATE (the Environment Agency's "Waste and Resources Assessment for The Environment" tool) and will take account of sustainable transport solutions where these are relevant. Our view at this stage is that the nature of the fuel use solution is likely to be much more significant than the transport requirement in comparing the carbon impact of different proposals.
Is a solution that generates electricity from commencement of operations, but heat thereafter only when a suitable heat source can be connected, acceptable?
Yes, but a solution that involves good quality Combined Heat and Power (CHP) is likely to score more favourably in financial and environmental terms for which we would need confidence that the heat offtake will be deliverable immediately or in the short term thereafter.