Opportunity to Weigh In: Second Consultation on Drax Power Limited’s Permit Variation Now Open | Environment Agency

The Environment Agency has opened a new consultation regarding Drax Power Limited’s request to modify its environmental permit in Yorkshire.

This second consultation follows Drax’s initial application from May 2023, where the company asked to implement carbon capture at its bioenergy plant located near Selby. The Agency first allowed the public to provide feedback on this application but found that the initial submission lacked key information.

Recently, Drax submitted more detailed data about the potential substances produced by the carbon capture process. With this updated information, the Agency has launched a second consultation period, which runs from February 4 to March 4, 2025.

Tim Shaw, the Installations Team Leader, stated:

“With the new information from the applicant, we felt it essential to hold another consultation. This gives the public a chance to review the updated documents and share their concerns about environmental issues.”

Understanding Carbon Capture

Carbon capture technology aims to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by capturing waste gases before they enter the atmosphere. In this case, Drax Power wants to harness carbon dioxide generated during energy production. The captured gas will be transported via pipeline for long-term storage in the North Sea.

To proceed with carbon capture, Drax must change its current environmental permit. The Environment Agency evaluates such applications to ensure they comply with environmental laws and protect public health.

Once the consultation closes, the Agency will consider all public feedback in its decision-making process. You can find the consultation documents on the Environment Agency’s Citizen Space page.

Learn More

For more details on Drax’s application, visit the documentation available on the Citizen Space.

• You can submit responses electronically through the consultation website.
• The website also provides guidelines on viewing documents and sharing your feedback.
• If you’d like to comment, we recommend reviewing the documents before responding online or via email.
• Responses can be made directly on the website or through email at pscpublicresponse@environment-agency.gov.uk.
• If you have trouble accessing the documents or need assistance, call the Environment Agency at 03708 506 506.