SPALDING ENERGY EXPANSION

Transcription

1 Intended for InterGen Document Reference Date August 2017 SPALDING ENERGY EXPANSION

2 gv SPALDING ENERGY EXPANSION Date 11/08/2017 Description FINAL Document Ref Revision 1 2

3 CONTENTS LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS 1. INTRODUCTION Overview: Intention to Vary a Consent under Section 36C of the Electricity Act Purpose of this Document 9 2. REQUIRED CONTENT OF AN EIA REPORT / EIA METHODOLOGY Required Content of an EIA Report Environmental Impact Assessment Methodology ALTERNATIVES / THE PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT Alternatives The Proposed Development Associated Development required in connection with the Proposed Development CONSTRUCTION / OPERATION / DECOMMISSIONING Introduction Construction Operation Decommissioning SUMMARY OF THE IMPACT ASSESSMENT SECTIONS Construction / Decommissioning Operation CONSOLIDATED SUMMARY OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT Construction Operation Decommissioning 42 3

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5 LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS AC ACC AGI BEIS BESS BSSSC CCGT CCR CCS CEMP CHP CTMP DC DECC DEMP DFO DTMP EIA ES ES FID FID FRA ha HGV HRSG HV IEMA km kv LNR MW NO NO x NO 2 OCGT OS SAC SEE SEEL SHDC SNCI SPA SSSI Alternating Current Air Cooled Condenser Above Ground Installation Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy Battery Energy Storage System British Sugar and Sports Social Club Combined Cycle Gas Turbine Carbon Capture Ready Carbon Capture and Storage Construction Environmental Management Plan Combined Heat and Power Construction Traffic Management Plan Direct Current Department of Energy and Climate Change Decommissioning Environmental Management Plan Distillate Fuel Oil Decommissioning Traffic Management Plan Environmental Impact Assessment Environmental Statement Environmental Statement Further Information Document Further Information Document Flood Risk Assessment hectare Heavy Good Vehicle Heat Recovery Steam Generator High Voltage Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment kilometre kilovolt Local Nature Reserve megawatt nitrogen oxide nitrogen oxides nitrogen dioxide Open Cycle Gas Turbine Ordnance Survey Special Area of Conservation Spalding Energy Expansion Spalding Energy Expansion Limited South Holland District Council Site of Nature Conservation Importance Special Protection Area Site of Special Scientific Interest 5

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7 1. INTRODUCTION 1.1 Overview: Intention to Vary a Consent under Section 36C of the Electricity Act On 11 November 2010, Consent under Section 36 of the Electricity Act 1989 was granted and a direction that deemed planning permission be granted under Section 90 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 was made (the Original Consent and the 2010 Deemed Planning Permission) for a generating station to be known as the Spalding Energy Expansion (SEE) at West Marsh Road, Spalding, Lincolnshire Condition 2 of the Original Consent provided that SEE: shall be about MW capacity and comprise: (a) (b) (c) (d) (e) (f) (g) (h) one or more gas turbines; one or more steam turbines; one of more heat recovery steam generators; one or more transformers; air cooled condensers; a 400 kv electrical sub-station; ancillary plant and equipment; and, the necessary buildings (including administration offices) and civil engineering works Subsequently, on 30 October 2015, a variation to the Consent under Section 36C of the Electricity Act 1989 was granted and a direction that the Conditions of the 2010 Deemed Planning Permission be varied under Section 90(2ZA) of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 was made (the Varied Consent and the 2015 Deemed Planning Permission) Condition 2 of the Varied Consent provides that SEE: shall be up to 945 MW capacity and comprise: (a) (b) (c) (d) (e) (f) either: (i) (ii) up to two [combined cycle gas turbine] CCGT unit(s) including for each CCGT unit a gas turbine, a heat recovery steam generator (HRSG), a steam turbine and associated equipment with a total rated electrical output of up to 945 MW; or, one CCGT unit including a gas turbine, a heat recovery steam generator (HRSG), a steam turbine with a rated electrical output of up to 645 MW with open cycle gas turbine (OCGT) unit(s) and associated equipment with a total rated electrical output of less than 300 MW. one or more transformers; air cooled condensers; a 400 kv electrical sub-station; ancillary plant and equipment; the necessary buildings (including administration offices) and civil engineering works Condition 4(2) of the Varied Consent and Condition (53) of the 2015 Deemed Planning Permission require that, prior to commencement of SEE, Spalding Energy Expansion Limited (SEEL) (a wholly owned subsidiary of InterGen) notify the Secretary of State and South Holland District Council (SHDC) which one of the gas turbine technology options in 1 A tolerance of up to 5 per cent is permitted. 7

8 Condition 2(a) has been selected and provide details of the capacity of each gas turbine technology On 7 June 2017, SEEL notified the Secretary of State and SHDC that the gas turbine technology option selected for SEE comprises that set out at Condition 2(a)(ii), namely: one CCGT unit including a gas turbine, a heat recovery steam generator (HRSG), a steam turbine with a rated electrical output of up to 645 MW with open cycle gas turbine (OCGT) unit(s) and associated equipment with a total rated electrical output of less than 300 MW Also on 7 June 2017, the Secretary of State confirmed discharge of Condition 4(2) of the Varied Consent and Condition (53) of the 2015 Deemed Planning Permission The OCGT unit(s) with a total rated electrical output of less than 300 MW secured a 15 year contract in the 2016 T-4 Capacity Market Auction, and is expected to commence construction in time to meet its commitments under this contract (principally to be in operations by 1 October 2020) Accordingly, SEEL intend to commence SEE in phases, of which the first phase will entail the commencement of the development of the OCGT unit(s) and associated equipment less than 300 MW. Further development will be undertaken in a subsequent phase(s) In order to give effect to the phasing contemplated for SEE, on 22 June 2017 an application was made under Section 96A of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 to make non-material changes to the Conditions of the 2015 Deemed Planning Permission. The non-material changes sought to allow for details to be submitted prior to commencement of a specified phase of the Proposed Development On 7 August 2017, the non-material amendments to the Conditions of the 2015 Deemed Planning Permission were granted (H ) Based on a number of influencing factors since the Varied Consent and the 2015 Deemed Planning Permission were granted, including electricity market changes and technological advancements, SEEL is submitting an application for the Varied Consent to be further varied under Section 36C of the Electricity Act In addition, a direction is sought for the Conditions of the 2015 Deemed Planning Permission to be further varied under Section 90(2ZA) of the Town and Country Planning Act These are referred to together as the 2017 Variation Application The 2017 Variation Application proposes to amend Condition 2(a)(ii) of the Varied Consent to allow for the installation of a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) alongside the CCGT unit and the OCGT unit(s) BESS technologies offer great potential to support the UK s electricity transmission and distribution network system, and have been named by the UK Government as one of the eight great technologies in which the UK is set to be a global leader In addition, the UK Government notes that UK researchers are developing next generation batteries which could reduce our electricity consumption by one fifth, and with the increased integration of intermittent renewable energy technologies (such as solar photovoltaics (PV) and wind) will keep the lights on. Furthermore, the UK Government notes that innovation in energy storage could create 12bn of new business revenue in the UK The Renewable Energy Association states that the use of energy storage technologies is a key missing piece for the UK s energy policy and can help deliver the low carbon energy the country needs 4. 2 Notes available at: 3 Notes available at: 4 Energy Storage in the UK: An Overview, Renewable Energy Association (Winter 2015 / 2016). 8

9 The Renewable Energy Association also notes a number of key benefits which energy storage technologies can offer. When compared to the UK s Energy Trilemma 5, these benefits include: In terms of ensuring security of supply: - Helping to optimise overall supply and demand, and thereby reducing the reliance on supplies through interconnectors; - Reducing transmission and distribution losses 6 ; - Addressing the increasing requirements for flexibility; and, - Providing network system stability. In terms of decarbonising: - Supporting the integration of renewable energy technologies (such as solar PV and wind); and, - Reducing the use of fossil fuels (and hence reducing emissions), creating a greener mix. In terms of containing costs: - Reducing businesses and consumer bills as energy can be stored when prices are low, and discharged when prices are high; and, - Reducing the amount of transmission and distribution network upgrades required Furthermore, the UK Government and OFGEM state that storage can open up many possibilities, helping to integrate low carbon generation, reduce the costs of operating the system, and help avoid or defer costly reinforcements to the network Accordingly, the rationale for installing a BESS alongside the CCGT unit and the OCGT unit(s) is to provide essential support to the electricity system by storing and discharging (but not producing / generating) energy, delivering significant benefits in meeting the UK s Energy Trilemma. Overall, an energy storage system will complement the proposed CCGT unit and OCGT unit(s) at the Proposed Development site. 1.2 Purpose of this Document When considering the information to accompany an application for a Consent to be varied under Section 36C of the Electricity Act 1989, the Variation Guidance 8 states (at paragraph 36) that: Before an application is for variation of the Section 36 Consent is granted by the Secretary of State or MMO, both the decision maker and the applicant must have complied with the relevant requirements of the [Electricity Works (Environmental Impact Assessment) (England and Wales) Regulations 2017 (the EIA Regulations)] regarding environmental assessment Accordingly, the 2017 Variation Application is accompanied by the 2017 Further Information Document (FID). This Document is a non-technical summary of the 2017 FID. 5 The UK s Energy Trilemma is widely accepted to represent the key challenges of: ensuring security of supply; decarbonising; and, containing costs. 6 The Renewable Energy Association note that transmission losses typically run at just below 10 per cent of the total energy produced in the UK. 7 Upgrading Our Energy System: Smart Systems and Flexibility Plan, HM Government and OFGEM (July 2017). 8 Varying Consents granted under Section 36 of the Electricity Act 1989 for Generating Stations in England and Wales: A Guidance Note on the New Process, Department of Energy and Climate Change (July 2013). 9

10 2. REQUIRED CONTENT OF AN EIA REPORT / EIA METHODOLOGY 2.1 Required Content of an EIA Report The March 2009 ES, the April 2015 ES FID and the 2017 FID comprise the EIA Report for the Proposed Development (being the generating station which SEEL would be authorised to construct if the Varied Consent (and the 2015 Deemed Planning Permission) is varied as per the 2017 Variation Application) and, used in combination, include the information referred to in Regulation 17(1) and Schedule 4 of the EIA Regulations. Table 2.1 provides a summary of the relationship between the March 2009 ES, the April 2015 ES FID and this 2017 FID The EIA Report is the product of a comprehensive and independent assessment of the likely significant effects of the Proposed Development on the environment, and includes: A description of the reasonable alternatives that are relevant to the Proposed Development and its specific characteristics, and an indication of the main reasons for the option chosen, taking into account the effects of the Proposed Development on the environment; A description of the parameters of the Proposed Development; A description of the relevant aspects of the current state of the environment; A description of the likely significant effects of the Proposed Development on the environment; A description of the features of the Proposed Development, and any measures envisaged, in order to avoid, prevent or reduce and, if possible, offset likely significant adverse effects on the environment; and, In the case of the April 2015 ES FID and this 2017 FID, a description of the main respects, in which the likely significant effects of the Proposed Development will differ from those previously described The March 2009 ES was prepared by ENVIRON (now Ramboll Environ). The April 2015 ES FID and the 2017 FID have been prepared by Ramboll. Ramboll is a member of the Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment s (IEMA s) EIA Quality Mark, a scheme which allows organisations to make a commitment to excellence in their EIA activities and have this commitment independently reviewed To ensure consistency throughout the EIA Report, the structure of this 2017 FID mirrors that of the April 2015 ES FID. 10

11 TABLE 2.1: RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN THE MARCH 2009 ES, THE APRIL 2015 ES FID AND THIS 2017 FID March 2009 ES April 2015 ES FID This 2017 FID Comments 1 Introduction 1 Introduction 1 Introduction This Section has been updated to provide the Consenting History of the Proposed Development. This Section also refers to the statutory provisions for an application to vary a Consent under Section 36C of the Electricity Act 1989, including the requirements under the Variation Regulations. No corresponding Section. 2 Rationale for Development 2 Rationale for Development This Section has been updated to provide the rationale for proposing that the Varied Consent (and the 2015 Deemed Planning Permission) is further varied. No corresponding Section. 3 Policy Context 3 Policy Context This Section has been updated to reflect the changes in energy and planning policy between April 2015 and the current time. 2 EIA Process and Methodology 2 EIA Process and Methodology 4 Development Description 4 EIA Methodology and ES Content 5 Stakeholder Consultations 6 The Proposed Development and Alternatives 5 Construction 7 Construction / Operation / Decommissioning 4 Required Content of an EIA Report / EIA Methodology This Section has been updated to provide details on the required content of an EIA Report and provide detailed on the EIA methodology. 5 Consultations This Section has been updated to provide a summary of the pre-application consultation and responses in relation to the 2017 Variation Application. Wherever relevant, this Section also provides a summary of the subsequent actions taken and references to additional information. 6 Alternatives / The Proposed Development 7 Construction / Operation / Decommissioning This Section has been updated to provide a description of the reasonable alternatives studies by SEEL that are relevant to the Proposed Development and its specific characteristics, and an indication of the main reasons for the option chosen, taking into account the effects of the Proposed Development on the environment. This Section has also been updated to provide a description of the Proposed Development (being the generating station which SEEL would be authorised to construct if the Varied Consent (and the 2015 Deemed Planning Permission) is varied as per the 2017 Variation Application. This Section has been updated to provide a description of the construction / operation / decommissioning methods for the Proposed Development. 10 Air Quality 8 Air Quality 8 Air Quality The individual Impact Assessment Sections have been updated to: 9 Noise and Vibration 9 Noise and Vibration 9 Noise and Vibration 7 Landscape and Visual 10 Landscape and Visual 10 Landscape and Visual 13 Ecology 11 Ecology 11 Ecology Provide an updated description of the relevant aspects of the current state of the environment (baseline environmental conditions); Provide a summary and updated description of the likely significant effects of the Proposed Development on the environment (including, where relevant: details of 11

12 March 2009 ES April 2015 ES FID This 2017 FID Comments 11 Ground Conditions 12 Ground Conditions (Geology and Land Contamination) 12 Water Resources and Flood Risk 13 Water Resources and Flood Risk 12 Ground Conditions (Geology and Land Contamination) 13 Water Resources and Flood Risk 8 Transport and Access 14 Transport and Access 14 Transport and Access No corresponding Section. 15 Archaeology and Cultural Heritage 15 Archaeology and Cultural Heritage 14 Socio-Economics 16 Socio-Economics 16 Socio-Economics 15 Indirect / Secondary and Cumulative Effects 6 Environmental Management 17 Cumulative Impacts 17 Cumulative Effects 18 Environmental Management 18 Consolidated Summary of Environmental Management the assessment methodology adopted, and the significance criteria employed; findings or any environmental assessment undertaken for the Proposed Development; a description of any features and / or measures envisaged to avoid, prevent or reduce and, if possible, offset likely significant adverse effect on the environment; and, any residual environmental effects); and, Determine the main respects in which the likely significant effects of the Proposed Development on the environment will differ from those previously described. Based on the likely significant effects of the Proposed Development on the environment, this Section has been updated to provide a consolidated summary of environmental management. 12

13 2.2 Environmental Impact Assessment Methodology In order provide the required content of an EIA Report (and comply with the requirements of Regulation 17(1) and Schedule 4 of the EIA Regulations), the EIA methodology used in this 2017 FID comprises: Consultation on the key issues to be considered in the 2017 Variation Application; Identification of reasonable alternatives; Establishment of the parameters of the Proposed Development (being the generating station which SEEL would be authorised to construct if the Varied Consent (and the 2015 Deemed Planning Permission) is varied as per the 2017 Variation Application); Establishment of the relevant aspects of the current state of the environment (baseline scenario); Establishment of the likely significant effects of the Proposed Development on the environment; Establishment of the features of the Proposed Development and any measures envisaged in order to avoid, prevent or reduce and, if possible, offset likely significant effects on the environment; and, Determination of the main respects in which the likely significant effects of the Proposed Development on the environment will differ from those previously described. 13

14 3. ALTERNATIVES / THE PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT 3.1 Alternatives The EIA Regulations require (at Regulation 17(1)(d) and Schedule 4(2)) a description of the reasonable alternatives that are relevant to the Proposed Development and its specific characteristics, and an indication of the main reasons for the option chosen, taking into account the effects of the Development on the environment In terms of alternatives, the March 2009 ES provided an outline of the: Alternative sites considered; Alternative processes considered; and, Alternative site layouts considered An update to these alternatives is provided in this sub-section. Preferred Site In terms of the preferred site, the March 2009 ES stated (at paragraph 3.104) that: Following careful consideration of the various alternatives [ ], InterGen has decided that the most economic and environmentally appropriate option is to construct a gas-fired CCGT [generating station] adjacent to [the existing Spalding CCGT generating station]. This location has been selected because: It offers the opportunity to utilise existing infrastructure where possible; The skilled workforce at the [existing Spalding CCGT generating station] will be available for training new employees; The electrical grid connection [to the National Grid National Electricity Transmission network], east of Spalding, is accessible to key areas of UK electricity demand; The [National Grid National Gas Transmission network] gas supply pipeline east of Spalding is accessible and has capacity; The land use characteristics of the adjoining industrial estate and the [existing Spalding CCGT generating station] site provide an appropriate environment for the development of the proposed SEE; There is sufficient land available for [CO 2 capture and CO 2 ] transport [ ] from this location appears to be feasible; and, The site is located within close proximity to potential heat and power off-takers The above reasons for selecting the Proposed Development site remain valid. Therefore, the Proposed Development site remains the preferred site. Preferred Process and Technology March 2009 ES / April 2015 ES FID Based on the March 2009 ES and April 2015 ES FID, in terms of the preferred process and associated preferred technology, electricity generation from natural gas was the preferred process, and the preferred technology comprises the use of CCGT units and OCGT units The preferred process and technology was selected on the basis that: The National Grid National Gas Transmission network gas supply pipeline east of Spalding is accessible and has capacity; Electricity generation from natural gas requires smaller land take / structures than many other forms of electricity generation; Electricity generation from natural gas typically results in lower air emissions (e.g. CO 2, NO x, particulate matter and SO 2 ) compared to alternative fossil fuels; 14

15 Electricity generation from natural gas does not produce material amounts of solid waste which are typical of many other forms of electricity generation; A mix of CCGT units and OCGT units are capable of generating up to 945 MW at the Proposed Development site; CCGT units and OCGT units are reliable and flexible; and, CCGT units and OCGT units are relatively low cost to construct and operate Supporting information on the rationale for the development of a mix of CCGT units and OCGT units is provided in Section 2 (Rationale for Development). This 2017 FID Based on a number of influencing factors since the Varied Consent and the 2015 Deemed Planning Permission were granted, including electricity market changes and technological advancements, SEEL is submitting the 2017 Variation Application The 2017 Variation Application proposes to amend Condition 2(a)(ii) of the Varied Consent to allow for the installation of a BESS alongside the CCGT unit and the OCGT unit(s). This proposal is made in response to evolving electricity market needs and within the context of the UK s Energy Trilemma Energy storage systems are classified according to the form of energy they use, and include: mechanical; electrochemical (battery); chemical; thermal; and, electromagnetic. For the majority of these, the technology is either not fully developed, not currently commercially viable, or not appropriate at the Proposed Development site. The most appropriate technology is an electrochemical (battery) energy storage system Although the battery types may be varied throughout the lifetime of the BESS, it is currently envisaged that lithium-ion batteries will be used during the initial operational phase 10. This process and technology is fully developed, proven, commercially viable and appropriate at the Proposed Development site. Preferred Process and Technology The 2017 Variation Application proposes to amend Condition 2(a)(ii) of the Varied Consent to allow for the installation of a BESS alongside the CCGT unit and the OCGT unit(s). Supporting information on the rationale for installing a BESS alongside the CCGT unit and the OCGT unit(s) is provided in Section 2 (Rationale for Development). Alternative Layouts Considered The Construction Contractor(s) who will complete the final layout and design of the Proposed Development will not be appointed until after the Varied Consent (and 2015 Deemed Planning Permission) has been further varied. Therefore it is not until this time that the final precise layouts and designs of the Proposed Development will be completed For this reason, it is not possible to provide the precise final layouts and designs for the Proposed Development. However, preliminary engineering studies have been undertaken to develop parameter layouts which have formed the basis for the assessment of likely significant effects of the Proposed Development on the environment. 3.2 The Proposed Development Regulation 2(1) of the Variation Regulations defines the Proposed Development as: "The generating station, or extension of a generating station, which the applicant would be authorised to construct under a relevant Section 36 Consent if that consent were varied as requested in a variation application. 9 The UK s Energy Trilemma is widely accepted to represent the key challenges of: ensuring security of supply; decarbonising; and, containing costs. 10 Regarding other battery types, it is understood that lithium-ion batteries will continue to be the battery chemistry of choice for the foreseeable future, largely due to the upfront investment in this battery chemistry from the automotive industry in large-scale manufacturing capacity for the electric vehicle market. 15

16 3.2.2 Accordingly, this sub-section identifies and describes the parameters of the Proposed Development and provides a brief description of the nature of the Proposed Development, including information on its location, design, size and other relevant features. Additional information on the construction, operational and decommissioning characteristics of the Proposed Development is provided in Section 7 (Construction / Operation / Decommissioning) Wherever appropriate, the parameters presented in this Section provide an envelope for assessing the effects of the Proposed Development on the environment. Accordingly, in order to ensure that the likely significant effects of the Proposed Development on the environment are described and assessed, parameters have been set which are broad enough to take account of all reasonable options available for the Proposed Development. Such an approach is considered good practice, as reflected in case law as the Rochdale Envelope principle. Suitably applied within EIA methodology, it can ensure there is a comprehensive assessment of the likely significant effects of the Proposed Development on the environment. Provisions of the Varied Consent Condition 2 of the Varied Consent provides that SEE: shall be up to 945 MW and comprise: (a) (b) (c) (d) (e) (f) either: (i) (ii) up to two CCGT unit(s) [ ] with a total rated electrical output of up to 945 MW; or, one CCGT unit [ ] with a rated electrical output of up to 645 MW with [ ] OCGT units [ ]with a total rated electrical output of less than 300 MW. one or more transformers; air cooled condensers; a 400 kv electrical substation; ancillary plant and equipment; the necessary buildings (including administration offices and civil engineering works The gas turbine technology option selected for SEE comprises that set out at Condition 2(a)(ii). Details of the 2017 Variation Application SEEL is submitting the 2017 Variation Application. The 2017 Variation Application proposes to allow for the installation of a BESS alongside the CCGT unit and the OCGT unit Therefore, the 2017 Variation Application proposes to amend Condition 2(a)(ii) of the Varied Consent such that the Proposed Development shall be up to 945 MW capacity and comprise: (a) either: (i) (ii) up to two Combined Cycle Gas Turbine (CCGT) units (including for each CCGT unit: a gas turbine; a heat recovery steam generator (HRSG); steam turbine plant; and, associated equipment) with a total rated electrical output of up to 945 MW; or, (1) one CCGT unit (including: a gas turbine; a HRSG; steam turbine plant; and, associated equipment) with a rated electrical output of up to 645 MW; (2) a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) (including: batteries; associated enclosures; control and protection systems; temperature control systems; and, power conversion systems) having a total rated electrical 16

17 (b) (c) (d) (e) (f) output of up to 175 MW; and, (3) Open Cycle Gas Turbine (OCGT) unit(s) (including for each OCGT unit: a gas turbine; and, associated equipment) having a total rated electrical output of less than 300 MW. The total combined electrical output of (1), (2) and (3) shall be up to 945 MW 11. one or more transformers; air cooled condensers; a 400 kv electrical sub-station; ancillary plant and equipment; and, the necessary buildings (including administration offices) and civil engineering works There will be no change to the generating capacity. Indicative Programme Regarding phasing: Condition 2(a)(ii) of the Varied Consent does not set out phasing, nor does it require that the Proposed Development is constructed in a single phase; Condition of the Varied Consent and Condition (3) of the 2015 Deemed Planning Permission require commencement of the Proposed Development not be later than 30 October 2020; Condition (7) attached to the 2015 Deemed Planning Permission contemplates that the works will be phased; but The Original Consent Application and the 2015 Variation Application assessed the effects of SEE on the environment on the assumption that construction is in a single phase The OCGT unit(s) with a total rated electrical output of less than 300 MW secured a 15 year contract in the 2016 T-4 Capacity Market Auction, and is expected to commence construction in time to meet its commitments under this contract (principally to be in operations by 1 October 2020) Accordingly, SEEL intend to commence SEE in phases, of which the first phase will entail the commencement of the development of the OCGT unit(s) and associated equipment less than 300 MW. Further development will be undertaken in a subsequent phase(s) In order to give effect to the phasing contemplated for SEE, on 22 June 2017 an application was made under Section 96A of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 to make non-material changes to the Conditions of the 2015 Deemed Planning Permission. The non-material changes sought to allow for details to be submitted prior to commencement of a specified phase of the Proposed Development On 7 August 2017, the non-material changes to the Conditions of the 2015 Deemed Planning Permission were granted (H ) Therefore, with regards to phasing, the envelope for assessing the likely effects of the Proposed Development on the environment comprises a first phase which will entail the commencement of the development of the OCGT unit(s) and associated equipment less than 300 MW and then either: Construction and operation of the remaining elements of the Proposed Development in one phase; or, Construction and operation of the remaining elements of the Proposed Development over a number of phases, likely including: 11 For example, a built CCGT unit of 480 MW, a built BESS of 165 MW and a built CCGT unit of less than 300 MW. 17

18 - Second Phase : commencement of the development of part of the BESS with a rated electrical output of approximately 25 MW; - Third Phase : commencement of the development of the CCGT unit and associated equipment; - Subsequent Phases : phased commencement of development of the remaining parts of the BESS up to the total rated electrical output In the event that the construction and operation of the remaining elements of the Proposed Development occurs over a number of phases, the phasing as set out above may be altered due to external influencing factors including developments and changes in the energy market Pursuant to the provisions of Condition (7) of the 2015 Deemed Planning Permission, prior to the commencement of the Proposed Development, a scheme for the phasing of works shall be submitted to, approved in writing by, and deposited with Sound Holland District Council. A scheme for the phasing of works, reflecting the above, is being prepared for submission to discharge Condition (7) to allow for the commencement of the Proposed Development. Location of the Proposed Development The Proposed Development will be located wholly within the SEE site. The SEE site is the area of land edged red on Drawing Number A. This Figure accompanies the 2017 Variation Application. Insert 3.1 provides the SEE site As the expansion to the existing 400 kv Spalding substation is no longer required as National Grid is using a spare bay in the existing substation, the plant / equipment associated with the Proposed Development may be re-located closer to the existing Spalding CCGT generating station. Accordingly, Drawing Number A replaces Figure (Drawing Number ) attached to the Varied Consent and 2015 Deemed Planning Permission, and the area previously allocated to the expansion of the substation has been re-allocated to that for the generating station There will be no change to the boundary of the SEE site (i.e. the area of land edged red) and, as such, the existing and future land uses of the Proposed Development site comprise those relating to energy / electricity generation The Proposed Development site lies approximately 2 km to the north east of Spalding town centre. The Ordnance Survey (OS) Grid Reference of the centre of the Proposed Development site is approximately , Insert 3.2 provides the location of the Proposed Development site The Proposed Development site is bounded by West Marsh Road to the east and by Vernatt s Drain to the west. The River Welland lies approximately 30 m to the east The Proposed Development site occupies a total area of approximately 14.4 hectares (ha), within which approximately 4.3 ha of land in the south of the site has been set aside by SEEL for the purposes of Carbon Capture Readiness (CCR) The northern part of the Proposed Development site comprises made ground in the form of a large flat-topped mound (the Mound) up to 4 m above ground level. The Mound is formed from washings from the settlement lagoons that were relocated from the site of the existing Spalding CCGT generating station site at the time of its construction Other than the Mound, the Proposed Development site is predominately open and grassy in nature, with the exception of four storage tents (located in the north west corner of the site). The British Sugar Sports and Social Club (BSSSC) and the disused Administration Building (which were located in the north east corner of the site) have recently been demolished The Proposed Development site (and much of its surroundings) remains materially the same as that previously described. 18

19 SPALDING ENERGY EXPANSION INSERT 3.1: THE SEE SITE 19

20 INSERT 3.2: LOCATION OF THE PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT SITE 20

21 The Existing Spalding CCGT Generating Station Site The Proposed Development will have a number of shared elements with the existing Spalding CCGT generating station. Therefore, a description of the existing Spalding CCGT generating station, and its associated site, is provided in this sub-section The existing Spalding CCGT generating station site comprises a developed area which is accessed from the north via security controlled Site Entrance A on West Marsh Road. There are two further secure accesses ( Site Entrance B and Site Entrance C ) which are accessed via West Marsh Road on the eastern side of the facility Similar to the Proposed Development site, the existing Spalding CCGT generating station site is bounded to the east by West Marsh Road and to the west by Vernatt s Drain The majority of the existing Spalding CCGT generating station site is hard-standing, although gravelled areas are utilised in external areas around buildings and operational plant / equipment. There is a single surface water pond located in the northern corner of the existing Spalding CCGT generating station site, adjacent to the car park and security gatehouse The main buildings and plant / equipment are laid out from north to south as follows: The ACC is located just beyond the entrance to the existing Spalding CCGT generating station site, with an administration office, workshop and warehouse situated to the west; The two HRSGs and associated stacks (78 m high) are located to the south of the warehouse, across an internal road; The turbine hall is located adjacent to the south of the HRSGs, and houses two gas turbines and one steam turbine; The control room is attached to the turbine hall; and, The three main transformers are located to the south of the turbine hall In addition, the existing National Grid Spalding 400 kv substation is located at the southern extent of the existing Spalding CCGT generating station site. The Proposed Development site is located immediately to the south of this existing National Grid Spalding 400 kv substation on brownfield land. Site History Appendix C provides the Historical Ordnance Survey (OS) Maps The Historical OS Maps of the area indicate that both the Proposed Development site and the existing Spalding CCGT generating station site were undeveloped and used as agricultural farm land until the establishment of the sugar factory (owned by British Sugar PLC) in Indeed, the 1888 / 1889 Edition OS Map shows that a network of drains covered both the Proposed Development site and the existing Spalding CCGT generating station site. Subsequently, the 1932 Edition OS Map shows the Anglo-Scottish Sugar Beet Factory and associated infrastructure (including rail lines) in the northern part of the Proposed Development site and in the centre of the existing Spalding CCGT generating station site. A sewage works was shown towards the western boundary of the Proposed Development site The sugar beet process utilised significant volumes of water to rinse soil from the beet crop during processing. This water was discharged to settlement lagoons where water was lost through natural processes (i.e. evaporation and, possibly, percolation). The settlement lagoons were initially created by the movement of naturally occurring soils into embankments which were then heightened by the continuous deposition of settled soils over a number of years. Indeed, the 1932 Edition OS Map shows these settlement lagoons to be located over the majority of the Proposed Development site. 21

22 The 1951 Edition OS Map shows that the settlement lagoons had expanded and occupied approximately 40 per cent of the Proposed Development site, and the drainage network in the southern half of the site was no longer shown The Edition OS Map shows that the settlement lagoons had been restructured, but still occupied approximately 40 per cent of the Proposed Development site. Sludge beds associated with the sewage works were also shown, and a playing field is shown to be located within the north eastern part of the existing Spalding CCGT generating station site The Anglo-Scottish Sugar Beet Factory closed in 1994, and was demolished in At the time of closure of the Anglo-Scottish Sugar Beet Factory, the area covered by the settlement lagoons was higher than the surrounding area by between 4 and 5 metres The 2000 Edition OS Map shows that the Anglo-Scottish Sugar Beet Factory, settlement lagoons, rail lines and sewage works were no longer present. A playing field is still shown to be located in the north eastern part of the existing Spalding CCGT generating station site The existing Spalding CCGT generating station was constructed between 2001 and 2004 and became operational on 1 October The electrical and gas supply infrastructure connections were established in November 2003 and January 2004 respectively. The existing Spalding CCGT generating stations produces up to 880 MW of electricity for export to the National Grid. The 2009 Edition OS Map shows the existing Spalding CCGT generating station site. Site Surroundings Within the immediate surrounding area, the predominant land use is industrial, with some residential properties located further afield. In brief, the surrounding land uses comprise: To the north, the existing National Grid Spalding 400 kv substation and the existing Spalding CCGT generating station site, beyond which is a sewage treatment works operated by Anglian Water. To the north east, across West Marsh Road, the Gas Receiving Facility for the existing Spalding CCGT generating station, and some local authority offices. To the east, West Marsh Road and the River Welland which has associated flood defences. Further to the east, across the River Welland, agricultural land with occasional housing. To the south east, the Springfields Shopping Centre and the Festival Gardens. To the south, undeveloped industrial land, with industrial buildings located beyond comprising a mixture of commercial buildings and vehicle parking. To the west, Vernatt s Drain which is a man-made drainage channel designed as a flood prevention measure (Vernatt s Drain also has associated flood defences). A public footpath runs along the eastern side of Vernatt s Drain, adjacent to the SEE site. Further to the west, vacant grassland and the Benner Road Industrial Estate comprising a mixture of industrial premises, including some associated with food storage, processing and distribution. To the north west, over Wardentree Lane, a factory, various warehouses and business space Therefore, the Proposed Development will be viewed within the context of the immediate surrounding area where the predominant land use is industrial The wider surrounding area is predominantly rural, with the predominant land uses being agricultural / horticultural or related to industrial food processing There are two statutory designated sites within a 5 km radius of the Proposed Development site. These are: 22

23 Vernatt s Local Nature Reserve (LNR) located approximately 700 m to the south west; and, Surfleet Lows Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) located approximately 3.5 km to the north There are also three non-statutory designated sites within a 2 km radius of the Proposed Development site. These are: Spalding Cemetery Site of Nature Conservation Importance (SNCI) located approximately 600 m to the south west; Vernatt s SNCI located approximately 700 m to the south west (similar to Vernatt s LNR above); and, Pinchbeck Marsh SNCI located approximately 1 km to the north Further afield, designated sites include: Cowbit Wash (Geological) SSSI located approximately 5 km to the south; Baston Fen Special Area of Conservation (SAC) / SSSI located approximately 15 km to the south west; Cross Drain SSSI also located approximately 15 km to the south west; and, The Wash Special Protection Area (SPA) / Ramsar Site and The Wash and North Norfolk SAC / European Conservation Site located approximately 15 km to the east (collectively termed The Wash). Design of the Proposed Development The design of equipment / buildings / enclosures will minimise regular and long-term maintenance requirements Materials and finishes will be selected to meet this objective and to ensure that the appearance of the Proposed Development does not deteriorate materially over its operating lifetime (approximately 35 years). Materials and finishes will be similar to those used on existing generating stations, and will be selected to be sympathetic the appearance of the surrounding land uses There will be no change to this design objective For safety and security, a perimeter security fence will be installed around the Proposed Development site. The fence will be consistent in height with the existing fencing at the Spalding CCGT generating station site. Motion sensor CCTV cameras will also be installed The Construction Contractor(s) who will complete the final layout and design of the Proposed Development will not be appointed until after the Varied Consent (and 2015 Deemed Planning Permission) has been further varied. Therefore it is not until this time that the final precise layouts and designs of the Proposed Development will be completed For this reason it is not possible to provide the precise final layouts and designs for the Proposed Development. However, preliminary engineering studies have been undertaken to develop parameter layouts which have formed the basis for the assessment of likely significant effects of the Proposed Development on the environment Pursuant to the provisions of Condition (8) of the 2015 Deemed Planning Permission, prior to the commencement of each phase of the Proposed Development, a scheme of provisions for the layout and design shall be submitted to, approved in writing by and deposited with SHDC. 23

24 Landscaping An overall landscaping strategy has been developed which aims to enhance the ecological resource of the Proposed Development site, and maintain connectivity to ecological resources in the wider area Under the overall landscaping strategy: The landscaping proposals will incorporate native species and include the following or similar: - Planting of hedgerow and hedgerow trees along the eastern boundary of the Proposed Development site, alongside West Marsh Road, to provide screening of the perimeter fence and low level elements of the Proposed Development. Poplar species may be suitable as they are fast growing, provide excellent screening and are in keeping with the surrounding landscape 12 ; - Planting of woodland trees and shrubs along the western boundary of the Proposed Development site, alongside Vernatt s Drain, to provide screening and enhance Vernatt s Drain habitat corridor. Native oak species would be suitable; - Shrub planting in various locations within the Proposed Development site (e.g. car parking areas), incorporating berried species to encourage birds. Native berry-bearing species could include: dog rose; elder; guilder rose; hawthorn; holly; honeysuckle; ivy; rowan; spindle; or, whitebeam. Nonnative berry-bearing species could include: berberis; cotoneaster; or, pyracantha; and, - Mixed species grassland in the land in the south of the Proposed Development site which has been set aside by SEEL for the purposes of CCR. The Proposed Development will include a new SUDS water feature(s), which will be planted with a fringe of emergent and marginal vegetation such as: common reed; marsh marigold; reed sweet grass; rushes; water mint; yellow iris; or, other wetland species. The new feature(s) will provide similar wildlife habitat to that used by birds and invertebrates along the River Welland and Vernatt s Drain as well as treating and detaining water on the site as required. All planting would be at a distance of greater than 9 m from Vernatt s Drain, as required by the Welland and Deepings Internal Drainage Board There will be no change to the overall landscaping strategy Pursuant to the provisions of Condition (40) of the 2015 Deemed Planning Permission, prior to the commencement of each phase of the Proposed Development, a scheme of landscaping and creative conservation shall be submitted to and approved in writing by SHDC, in consultation with the Environment Agency and Natural England With regards to the first phase of development, a scheme of landscaping and creative conservation for the site of the OCGT unit(s) and associated equipment is being prepared for submission to discharge Condition (40) to allow for the commencement of the development of the OCGT unit(s) and associated equipment. Size of the Proposed Development Dimensions The March 2009 ES stated (at paragraphs 4.6 to 4.8) that: A degree of flexibility, within the confines of [a] parameter plan, with regards to the positioning and scale of the components [ ] is required to allow for minor changes to the layout as the project progresses. As such a Parameter Block Model Layout has been 12 Poplar species are present at the western boundary of the Proposed Development site, immediately across Vernatt s Drain. 24

25 developed in order to establish the maximum extent of the physical development of the proposed SEE. The Parameter Block Model Layout consists of a block model of the proposed SEE, demonstrating the maximum deviations that may occur within a series of three dimensional envelopes. [The Parameter Block Model Layout ] comprises five distinct envelopes of varying heights based on the maximum heights of structures or buildings that may occur within each area of the proposed SEE site. [ ] [ ] The EIA is based on the [ Parameter Block Model Plan ] to ensure that the environmental effects of the possible layout variants and plant types have been considered. This approach allows for assessment of the worst-case scenario in terms of the potential impacts. Through the detailed design process the proposals for the proposed SEE will be refined and it is likely that the eventual effects will be lower than those predicted, particularly with regard to landscape and visual" Insert 3.3 provides the Parameter Block Model Layout. Within the Parameter Block Model Layout, Table 3.1 identifies the plant / equipment expected to be located within the various areas. The main plant / equipment is expected to be located in the central part of the Proposed Development site. Table 3.2 presents the main plant / equipment dimensions Whilst there may be some re-location of items of plant / equipment, the basis for the assessment of likely significant effects on the environment is that the Proposed Development will be located wholly within the limits of the Parameter Block Model Layout. Therefore, with regards to the size of the Proposed Development, the envelope for assessing the likely effects of the Proposed Development on the environment comprises the Parameter Block Model Layout There will be no change to the Parameter Block Model Layout With regards to re-location of items of plant / equipment, the Construction Contractor(s) who will complete the final layout and design of the Proposed Development will not be appointed until after the Varied Consent (and the 2015 Deemed Planning Permission) has been further varied. Therefore, it is not until this time that the final precise layout and designs of the Proposed Development will be complete Pursuant to the provisions of Condition (8) of the 2015 Deemed Planning Permission, prior to the commencement of each phase of the Proposed Development, a scheme of provisions for the layout and design shall be submitted to, approved in writing by and deposited with SHDC. 25

26 INSERT 3.3: PARAMETER BLOCK MODEL LAYOUT 26

27 Block Blue TABLE 3.1: MAIN PLANT / EQUIPMENT EXPECTED TO BE LOCATED WITHIN THE VARIOUS PARAMETER BLOCK MODEL LAYOUT AREAS Maximum Height (m) 14 (with parameter allowance for pylon structure of 65 m) Approx. Area* (m 2 ) 34,500 Green 23 7,500 Purple 17 11,000 Yellow ,500 Blue Hatch 82 (the hatching shows the zone of deviation) Main Plant / Equipment Previously Described For the development currently described at Condition 2(a)(i): Substation; and, Gas Receiving Facility. For the development currently described at Condition 2(a)(ii): Substation. For the development currently described at Condition 2(a)(i): Water Treatment Plant and Water Storage Tanks. For the development currently described at Condition 2(a)(ii): Gas Receiving Facility. For the development currently described at Condition 2(a)(i): Warehouse / Maintenance / Admin / Control Building. Landscaping For the development currently described at Condition 2(a)(ii): Water Treatment Plant and Water Storage Tanks; and, Landscaping. Main Plant / Equipment For the development currently described at Condition 2(a)(i): 2 CCGT units and associated equipment; and, Car parking. For the development currently described at Condition 2(a)(ii): 1 CCGT unit and associated equipment; OCGT unit(s), stack(s) of the OCGT unit(s) and associated equipment; Warehouse / Maintenance / Admin / Control Building; and, Car parking. 5,250 Main Stack(s) for CCGT unit(s) Variations to the Parameters Previously Described This area was previously contained an expansion of the existing 400 kv Spalding substation. As this expansion is no longer required, the plant / equipment may be re-located closer to the existing Spalding CCGT generating station. This area previously contained a pylon. However, as no new overhead transmission line will be required for the export of electricity, no new pylon will be required. There will be no change to the height and area assumed. This area may now contain some the plant / equipment items previously allocated to other areas. There will be no change to the height and area assumed. This area may now contain some the plant / equipment items previously allocated to other areas. There will be no change to the height and area assumed. This area may now contain some the plant / equipment items previously allocated to other areas. There will be no change to the height and area assumed. This area was previously the zone of deviation for the main stack(s) of the CCGT unit(s). There will be no change to the height and area assumed. * The Proposed Development site occupies a total area of approximately 14.4 ha. In addition to these areas, 0.25 ha of land in the north may be used for shared elements with the existing Spalding CCGT generating station, and 4.3 ha of land in the south has been set aside for the purposes of CCR. 27

28 Plant / Equipment CCGT Unit Turbine Hall Area (Gas Turbine(s) and Steam Turbine(s)) TABLE 3.2: EXPECTED MAIN PLANT / EQUIPMENT DIMENSIONS For the Development Currently Described at Condition 2(a)(i) of the Varied Consent Height (m) Approx. Area (m 2 ) For the Development Currently Described at Condition 2(a)(ii) of the Varied Consent Height (m) Approx. Area (m 2 ) Proposed Development Height (m) Approx. Area (m 2 ) 37 5, , ,700 HRSG , Stack(s) 82 12m diameter 82 12m diameter 82 12m diameter ACC 36 6, , ,600 BESS Enclosures N / A N / A N / A N / A 20 / 10* 29,400 OCGT Unit Turbine Hall Area (Gas Turbine(s)) N / A N / A ** 600 Stack(s) N / A N / A 39.5 Up to 8.5 m diameter 39.5 Up to 8.5 m diameter Other Plant / Equipment Warehouse / Maintenance / Admin / Control Building 17 3, , ,100 Water Tanks m diameter m diameter m diameter Substation 14 22, ,500 N / A N / A * In the event double storey enclosures are employed, the height of the BESS enclosures will be up to 20 m in height. In the event that single storey enclosures are employed, the height of the BESS enclosures will be up to 10 m. ** As the expansion to the existing 400 kv Spalding substation is no longer required, the plant / equipment associated with the Proposed Development may be re-located closer to the existing Spalding CCGT generating station. Therefore, the area that was previously allocated to the expansion may now contain some of the plant / equipment items previously allocated to other areas. In this event, the height of the OCGT unit turbine hall area would be up to 14 m. 28

29 Design Site Levels Design site levels have been carefully developed to mitigate flood risk and ensure accessibility standards are met. The design site levels (taking account of climate change and flood risk) are 6.5 m AOD and the whole Proposed Development site will be regraded to this level There will be no change to the design site levels. Further Variations to the Phasing, Location, Design and / or Size of the Proposed Development Should further variations to the phasing, location, design and / or size of the Proposed Development be required, consideration will be given to the provisions of Condition (51) and Condition (52) of the 2015 Deemed Planning Permission Pursuant to the provisions of Condition (51) of the 2015 Deemed Planning Permission, where the words unless otherwise agreed in writing by the Council or with the prior written approval of the Council appear, such agreement or approval may only be given by SHDC in relation to immaterial changes where it has been demonstrated that the agreement or approval is unlikely to give rise to any materially new or materially different effects on the environment from those previously described Pursuant to the provisions of Condition (52) of the 2015 Deemed Planning Permission, the likely significant effects of the Proposed Development on the environment must not exceed those previously described Therefore, further variations to the location, design and / or size of the Proposed Development are required due to the completion of final layouts and design, when preparing the documents to discharge the relevant pre-commencement Conditions, the documents will be supported by assessments to demonstrate: (For Condition (51) of the 2015 Deemed Planning Permission), that the further variations are unlikely to give rise to any materially new or materially different effects on the environment from those previously described; and, (For Condition (52) of the 2015 Deemed Planning Permission), that the likely significant effects of the Proposed Development on the environment will not exceed those previously described. 3.3 Associated Development required in connection with the Proposed Development Underground Gas Pipeline and Associated AGI The CCGT unit and the OCGT unit(s) will burn natural gas only For the first phase development (the commencement of the development of the OCGT unit(s) and associated equipment less than 300 MW), the natural gas will be brought to the Proposed Development site via a short connection to the existing underground gas pipeline that serves the existing Spalding CCGT generating station. This short connection will be subject to an application most likely under the New Roads and Street Works Act For the subsequent phase(s) (including the commencement of the development of the CCGT unit(s)), the natural gas will be brought to the Proposed Development site via a new underground gas pipeline to be constructed between the Proposed Development site and the existing National Grid National Gas Transmission network Number 7 Feeder Pipeline via an extension to the existing AGI at Wragg Marsh. The new underground gas pipeline will be approximately 8 km in length. On 8 June 2010, planning permission for the underground gas pipeline and associated AGI was granted (Reference: H ). On 11 June 2015, a request to extend the time limit on the planning permission for the underground gas pipeline and associated AGI was granted (Reference: H ). 29

30 3.3.4 The quality of the natural gas will be the same as that used in domestic properties and will be supplied to a flanged terminal point at a pressure in the range of approximately 30 to 75 bar(g). There will be gas pressure reduction / and potential for compression facilities on the Proposed Development site to regulate the pressure of the incoming gas supply to that required by the gas turbines With the exception of temperature and pressure regulation, the natural gas will not be treated on site and no natural gas will be stored on the Proposed Development site. HV Electrical Connection Within the March 2009 ES it was noted (at paragraph 1.5) that: The electricity generated by the proposed SEE will require transmission by a new 400 kv overhead transmission line to the National Grid, including construction of new transmission towers for which an application accompanied by a separate ES will be made by [National Grid Electricity Transmission] to DECC for Section 37 Consent under the Electricity Act Furthermore, it was noted (at paragraph to paragraph 15.19) that: A 400 kv overhead electricity transmission line, approximately 5.5 km in length is required to interconnect the proposed SEE to the [National Grid National Electricity Transmission network] operated by [National Grid Electricity Transmission]. [ ] The preferred route of the overhead transmission line route leaves the proposed SEE [site] and travels in a north easterly direction. It begins by crossing the River Welland and the A16 and then continues across open farmland parallel to the existing overhead transmission approximately m to its south to where it meets the Walpole West Burton overhead transmission line. It is assumed that there will be between pylons required along the overhead transmission line. The new line will likely be constructed using an updated L12 style tower design, and it is likely to be of a steel lattice construction. These towers have a typical height of up to 50 m, although the height of the tower would vary according to the precise nature of the location and terrain to ensure the necessary safe clearance for the live conductors Insert 3.4 presents the preferred route (Route 1A) of the overhead transmission line, and other potential routes. INSERT 3.4: PREFERRED ROUTE OF THE OVERHEAD TRANSMISSION LINE, AND OTHER POTENTIAL ROUTES 30