the development to date
The Tansterne Straw-burning CHP Plant has been in development since 2005, when Richard Caley realised that his farm, and the local area, had two very special assets: a 66kV overhead electric line crossing his land and an abundance of locally-produced straw.
2005
Following initial inquiries into the concept and design of a straw-burning CHP plant, Richard assembled a team of consultants to produce a draft design for an Environmental Report and Planning Application.
2006-7
The Application was submitted in late 2006 and amended in mid-2007.
2008-9
Although the planning case officer's report recommended approval, it was refused at committee in Spring of 2008. The subsequent Appeal and Public Inquiry took place in late 2008, with a visit to the Danish Straw-burning CHP plant at Maribo in January 2009. In March 2009 the Inspector's recommendation for acceptance of the Appeal was issued, together with the Secretary of State's approval.
2009-10
Richard and his team have been working on technical issues of detailed design, prior to submitting the information to discharge the outstanding conditions. Meanwhile, negotiations are well underway for supply of straw feedstock.
2011
All planning conditions and reserved matters were addressed and full planning consent was issued in February. Invitations to tender were released to potential contractors with the intention of awarding the contract in early 2012.
2012
Work is anticipated to start on site in spring 2012 with construction of the new access road from the B1238. Construction of the plant will mostly take place during 2012-13. It is anticipated that the plant will be operational during 2014.