On Friday I visited Melton CLP's Chelson Meadow site. For those of you who aren’t aware, above the Chelson Meadow waste facility are a series of large ‘fields’ or rather, grassed-over landfill mounds. Melton convert landfill gas into energy at 19 sites across the UK, minimising the harmful release of methane and providing the National Grid with a vital source of 'baseload electricity'.
While solar panels and wind turbines are weather-dependent, landfill gas can be converted into energy 24/7, 365 days a year. Locally, the Chelson Meadow site powers around 2,000 homes and helps prevent nearby residents from smelling landfill odours.
The UK are considered global leaders in this model of methane capture. However, the expiry of support provided by Renewable Obligation Certificates in 2027 will force companies like Melton to cease operations, threatening this global leadership. I will campaign for this support to be extended in Parliament.
