Renewable energy centre could turn Rotherham rubbish into electricity

The proposed facility would use a new process called gasification, where non-recyclable waste is baked rather than burned.

Energy firm Rolton Kilbride said the development, at the former Sterecycle site in Templeborough, would bring 42 jobs.

Managing director Andrew Needham said: “Creating secure, predictable and sustainable off-grid energy sources is front of mind for many people, and this project has the potential to do just that for Rotherham.”

The 3.4-hectare site, on Sheffield Road, is next door to Magna and 200 metres from the residential part of Tinsley.

The centre would produce up to 23MW of exportable electricity for neighbouring businesses or to supply the grid.

Rotherham Borough Council is expected to make a planning decision by October 5 and the centre could be operational in three years.

Recycling firm Sterecycle closed after employee Michael Whinfrey (42) was killed in a 2011 explosion. The firm was found guilty of corporate manslaughter.

A fire at the site in 2014 led to Magna cancelling Christmas parties for 1,500 guests. More recently, it was occupied by engineers Costain while it worked on the M1.