Shropshire businesses with an interest in renewable energy are being urged to attend a fact-finding conference in the region.
The Renewable Energy Association (REA), in conjunction with AD Network, has pulled together a programme of expert speakers for a day-long seminar on ‘Maximising Opportunities for Anaerobic Digestion Assets’ on January 16. The event starts at 9.30am, at DWF LLP in Snowhill Queensway, Birmingham.
It is being backed by The Centre for Research into Environmental Science and Technology (CREST), based at University Centre Shrewsbury, which supports businesses to develop innovative ideas with an environmental theme.
The event includes an excellent list of speakers including Will Llewelyn of Red Kite Management, based in Craven Arms, who will talk on the use of biomethane in transport.
Dr Jane Yardley, leading research fellow at CREST, said: “Latest data from the NNFCC shows that there are as many as 473 anaerobic digestion plants in the UK already operational and another 326 projects in development.
“With incentives coming to an end, it is more important than ever to safely maximise income and performance of these assets.
“The speakers at this event have extensive practical experience, and with the Shropshire and Herefordshire area having one of the largest concentration of AD plants in the country, this is a perfect opportunity to learn from best practice in the business.”
Dr Kiara Zennaro, head of biogas at the REA, said: “With such a large existing asset base, there is a significant opportunity to cost-effectively optimise these plants and increase their green gas production using modification, expansion or improved operational techniques.”
The REA has been representing the anaerobic digestion sector since its launch in 2001. Having worked hard to promote this technology to the Government over the years, the sector is now recognised as a major contributor to renewable energy and the circular economy in the UK. Several companies from Shropshire are members of the REA Biogas group.
The January 16 event will focus on how industry can improve existing plants, derive more value from existing assets and maximise commercial returns.
Dr Yardley added: “Key topics include options for retrofitting technologies to existing AD plants, improving operational performance, achieving process optimisation and enhancing efficiencies, and getting the best deal from selling renewable energy.
“It is aimed at a wide range of businesses, including farmers, funders, consultants, AD developers, scientists, academics, policy makers and environmental regulators.”
Places can be booked online through www.r-e-a.net/events.
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