Biomass and coal plant closes after 46 years of generation
The iconic station reaches its 20,000 hours limit of operation, set by the European Union in 2008, this afternoon, with the plant generating coal power since 1969 and converted to run on wood pellets just under four years ago.
The closure comes after Energy Secretary Amber Rudd’s declaration that all coal-powered power stations are to be closed by 2025, with their use restricted by 2023, whilst also following biomass pioneer Drax’s announcement that its share prices have dropped by 4% in the wake of Ms Rudd’s speech on Wednesday.
The station generated up to 1000MW from its two 500MW units at its peak, with 400 workers employed, however its output was reduced to 740MW after its conversion to biomass in 2012, whilst a fire in one of its units last year meant capacity was further reduced to 370MW.
Ironbridge B, closing after 46 years of supplying electricity, was the second plant to be built on the site in Shropshire following the construction on Ironbridge A, which operated from 1932 until its closure in 1980 and subsequent demolition two years later.
Tony Cocker, E.ON Chief Executive, is hugely proud of the contribution Ironbridge Power Station has made to the UK’s energy infrastructure during its lifespan.
“The closure of such an iconic plant will of course be tinged with sadness having played such an important role in the community," he said.
“I’d like to take this opportunity to thank all those who have supported the ongoing operations and maintenance at the plant, and our continued focus will be supporting those colleagues who are directly affected by today’s closure.”
