Plans to build a £150 million incinerator to burn non-recyclable rubbish from Aberdeen, Aberdeenshire and Moray progressed yesterday as a preferred bidder for its construction was named.
The plant, which will be built at East Tullos in Aberdeen, will process the waste in an environmentally friendly manner and the energy produced will be used to heat homes.
A multi-national consortium led by global construction company Acciona has now been chosen to oversee its creation, following a two-year procurement process.
Project director, Linda Ovens, said: “I’m delighted that we have identified a high quality, affordable solution for the councils and look forward to finalising the details with Acciona over the coming months.
“This is a significant project for the north-east and shows what can be achieved when councils work together.”
Waste company Indaver, which runs similar energy from waste sites across Europe, will operate it for a 20-year contract period.
The rubbish will be burned in a way which conforms to the latest European standards for emissions.
Planning permission for the plant was granted in October 2016, and it is due to be built by 2022.
From 1 January, 2021, Scottish councils will be banned from putting any biodegradable municipal waste into landfill.
A final decision on whether to proceed with the project, and award the contract, will be taken individually by the three councils at the start of next month.
Ramón Jiménez, from Acciona, said: “This project will provide a more efficient and clean waste management system in line with European emission standards.
“Acciona is committed to sustainability and the development of new clean technologies.
“For this reason, we are proud to bring to the region our experience in the development of large-scale waste to energy projects.”
