Understand
Portland incinerator granted permit to burn a wider range of waste types
Overview
The Environment Agency has issued a permit variation allowing Powerfuel Portland's planned waste-to-energy facility at Portland Port to burn 68 categories of waste instead of one. Despite hundreds of objections from campaigners and local politicians regarding environmental and health concerns, the agency stated it is legally obliged to issue permits if legal requirements are met. The facility, expected to open in 2030, will process up to 202,000 tonnes of waste annually and generate energy for 30,000 homes.
Key points
- The Environment Agency granted a permit variation allowing Powerfuel Portland to burn 68 categories of waste.
- The incinerator is scheduled to open at Portland Port in 2030 and process up to 202,000 tonnes of waste annually.
- South Dorset MP Lloyd Hatton and the Stop Portland Incinerator Campaign strongly condemned the decision, citing risks to local health, wildlife, and the Jurassic Coast.
- The Environment Agency defended the decision, noting it is legally required to issue permits if environmental and health legislation requirements are met.
- Powerfuel Portland maintained that independent reports prove the facility will be safe and environmentally responsible, helping Dorset manage its residual waste.