Climate Change Adaptation Plan – Runcorn Power Generation Plant

Redmore Environmental was commissioned to complete a Climate Change Adaptation Plan for a gas fired peaking power plant in Runcorn.

The facility is located at Astmoor Industrial Estate and comprises two-gas fired generators which are operated under an Environmental Permit. These generators provide electricity for up to 3,000 hours per year and release emissions to atmosphere via independent stacks that terminate at a height of 7m.

What are Peaking Power Plants?

Peaking power plants, also known as short term operating reserves (STORs), are power plants that grid operators call on at times of high electricity demand on the National Grid. They typically operate only when there is a spike in electricity consumption that exceeds the capacity of base-load power plants, which run continuously to meet the regular, consistent demand for electricity.

As the UK looks to decarbonise its energy mixture, relying more on renewables, peaking power plants have become essential, providing electricity when weather conditions are not favourable and demand is high.

Why was a Climate Change Adaptation Plan Required?

A Climate Change Adaptation Plan was produced to a address condition included in the Environmental Permit for the site.

It was anticipated that the site will experience a certain degree of climate change over its lifetime due to historic greenhouse gas emissions and a lag in the climate system. Understanding site vulnerability to potential impacts linked to climate change was required to ensure that the site continued to operate in compliance with the Environmental Permit, and to maintain safety, security and reliability of the facility.

Based on the above, a Climate Change Adaptation Plan was prepared to identify opportunities for adaptation of management strategies. This considered the Environment Agency ‘Climate Change: Risk Assessment and Adaptation Planning in your Management System’ guidance as necessary throughout the project.

Results and Findings

Various sector-based or site-specific climate change risks, including extreme weather events like floods, heatwaves, storms and droughts, were identified that could impact the operation of the site. The associated impacts included potential flooding, storm damage and an increased risk of fire.

Nearby sensitive receptors which could be impacted by changing weather patterns at the site were identified. These included residential, commercial and ecological sites. These sensitive receptors, along with site-specific and industrial sector impacts, were considered in a risk assessment. The magnitude and likelihood of identified impacts were assessed along with control measures to mitigate identified risks.

The final stage of the assessment emphasised the importance of regularly reviewing and updating the Climate Change Adaptation Plan to adapt to evolving climate conditions and ensure ongoing compliance with environmental standards.

How Can We Help?

If you have a site that needs a Climate Change Adaptation Plan, then get in touch today to discuss how we can assist.