Biffa reaches midpoint of hazardous waste removal at Ratcliffe power station

Biffa’s Specialist Service team on site at Ratcliffe Power Station. (PHOTO: Biffa)

The work is part of the site’s ongoing decommissioning programme and is being delivered by Biffa’s Specialist Services division.

Since November 2024, a team of over 20 personnel — including industrial chemists and dangerous goods safety advisors — has been engaged in cleaning and removing waste from the water treatment plant and fuel oil system.

The company confirmed that 450 tonnes of hazardous waste have so far been removed from the site. This includes high-concentration sulphuric acid, fuel oil, effluent, and both anionic and cationic resins. According to Biffa, some of the removed materials can be reused.

Much of the work has involved the use of high-pressure water systems, DISAB vacuum systems, and industrial tankers, with team members often operating in confined spaces or at height, and using breathing apparatus.

The next stage of the project will involve dismantling and disposing of the site’s catalyst bed.

James Bissell, Head of Tankers & Industrial Services at Biffa, said: “Our expertise in industrial services, hazardous waste management and our commitment to health and safety have been critical in supporting the successful ongoing decommissioning of Ratcliffe-on-Soar Power Station.

Owned by Uniper, Ratcliffe Power Station was closed in September 2024. (PHOTO: Biffa)

“Rigorous safety protocols, the use of specialist equipment, and the strategic handling of hazardous materials have ensured the highest standards of compliance and environmental protection.”

Biffa has previously undertaken similar decommissioning work at Ironbridge power station in Shropshire and currently provides waste management services at the Hinkley Point C nuclear construction site in Somerset.