Construction completed on Worcestershire hydrogen-ready peaking plant
Construction has been completed at a new 20MW hydrogen-blend-ready gas-fired peaking plant in Worcestershire.
Centrica has built the facility on a decommissioned power plant in Redditch, which now houses eight containerised engines assembled in the UK to burn natural gas.
The plant plays a role in meeting high or peak electricity demand times, ensuring stability during the energy transition. It can power around 2,000 homes for a full day, while the engines can also burn natural gas and up to 25% hydrogen, supporting the UK’s shift towards decarbonisation.
Previously, the site operated as a diesel-fueled power station.
Gregory McKenna, managing director at Centrica Business Solutions, said: “As we transition to a greener, more flexible grid system, gas-fired power plants like the one at Redditch will help meet the UK’s fluctuating energy needs by providing power to homes and communities when demand outweighs supply. We have ambitious plans to build out a portfolio of flexible assets which will play a critical role as the safety net for the grid.”
Final testing is underway, and power generation should start around mid-March 2024.
