Investment in renewable flexible electricity and carbon removals have a critical role to play in delivering the Government's clean power target and wider climate goals, according to the newly published National Energy System Operator's (NESO) 'Clean Power 2030' report.

Welcoming the new report, Drax Group CEO, Will Gardiner, said: "Drax Power Station's secure biomass generation, and our intention to double the capacity of our pumped hydro site, Cruachan Power Station, are essential components of the pathways that NESO have set out.

"NESO says the deployment of bioenergy with carbon capture and storage (BECCS) is required to meet the Government's carbon removal targets. We aim to install at least two units of BECCS at Drax Power Station, with the first operational in 2030 removing 4 million tonnes of carbon from the atmosphere per year.


"Our long-term projects in Yorkshire and Scotland will support British energy security, ensuring that millions of homes have power when they need it, not just when the wind is blowing and the sun is shining. And our plans will create thousands of high-quality jobs and support the UK Government to turbo-charge economic growth.

"NESO recognises a rapid decision on a transitional support mechanism for biomass generators post-2027 is required, and we also hope to see the cluster sequencing process accelerated to underpin our BECCS plans and the speedy implementation of the proposed cap and floor regime for Cruachan in the coming months.

"NESO state that the Government's goals are achievable with faster decision making and greater ambition and we look forward to playing our part in helping them successfully meet their targets."