ENGIE Group (ENGIE) has launched a community consultation on its proposal to develop an agricultural anaerobic digestion (AD) facility near High Catton, UK, aiming to provide renewable energy to power approximately 5,200 homes.
The project is expected to boost the local rural economy through partnerships with farmers, contributing to the UK’s push towards Net Zero carbon emissions by 2050.
The facility will convert biodegradable materials from nearby farms into low-carbon energy using the AD process, which breaks down organic matter in an oxygen-free environment to produce biogas.
The by-product of this process, a natural biofertiliser, is also expected to improve soil quality, offering farmers an alternative to expensive artificial fertilisers.
Rob McKeon, Head of Business Development at ENGIE Group, spoke on the dual benefits of the facility, saying, “Through our partnership with the local farming community we can help tackle the energy and environmental challenges of today, helping to lower the carbon footprint of farming and decarbonise our energy supply.”
In addition to providing green energy and supporting sustainable farming practices, the AD plant will generate local investment, create skilled jobs and offer long-term financial stability for farmers. The facility will also be complemented by woodland and hedgerow planting, enhancing local biodiversity.
The project aligns with the UK’s commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, particularly in the energy and agriculture sectors. As part of its Climate Strategy, East Riding of Yorkshire Council is working to address these challenges, with the ENGIE facility contributing to local and national sustainability efforts.
The community consultation process has already begun, with a drop-in session scheduled for Thursday, 10th October at Catton Village Hall.
ENGIE’s Rainbarrow Farm AD facility. ©ENGIE
Local residents are invited to provide feedback on the plans before the consultation period closes on 24th October.
“We’re looking forward to meeting with the local community to discuss the plans and would encourage people to come along and have their say,” said McKeon.
The project is expected to reduce reliance on imported fossil fuels and contribute to energy security, while the Community Benefit Fund associated with the facility will support local causes.
Feedback gathered during the consultation will inform the final plans before ENGIE submits a formal planning application to East Riding of Yorkshire Council later this year.
ENGIE is involved in several anaerobic digestion (AD) projects across the UK. One of their key projects includes the Rainbarrow Farm AD facility in Dorset, which they acquired in 2024.
This facility has been operational for over a decade and produces biogas from agricultural feedstocks, generating renewable energy that powers around 3,500 homes.
The company has also partnered with Heathrow Airport to supply 100% green biomethane derived from AD. This partnership has helped the airport achieve carbon-neutral status by replacing natural gas with biomethane across all its terminals
