United Waste, which is part of the SITA group, will now start work on the energy from waste plant, which should be completed by 2003.
Although United Waste was awarded a 25-year contract to build and operate the plant in October 2000, the decision follows a lengthy planning process which was a result of the strict environment standards imposed on the plant's construction and operation by the Isle of Man government.
The plant, which is being built near to Douglas, will serve the 75,000 residents on the island and has been designed to process up to 8.25 tonnes of municipal solid waste per hour with an annual operating capacity ranging from 45,000 to 60,000 tonnes. Electricity generated will be sold to the Manx Electricity Authority or used in future district heating schemes.
SITA said that the energy from waste plant will differ from other facilities in Europe as it will also feature a second incineration line for the treatment of clinical waste and animal wastes.
Walter Gilbey, Minister for the department of local government and the environment, said: “The facility will undoubtedly be one of the finest and most technologically advanced in the world.”
Jean-Claude Sartenaer, United Waste’s project manager, said: “United Waste is committed to continuing to work with the department of local government and the environment and the Richmond Hill consultative committee to ensure that the facility is, and is seen to be, built and operated to strict standards which will safeguard the Island’s residents and environment.”
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