Developing low carbon technology now and for the future.
Severn Wye has a long track record of working innovative renewable energy projects, particularly making bio-energy work in the real world.
By contributing to R&D projects that bring sustainable technologies into being, Severn Wye are pioneering the energy solutions of the future, and making sure they have real impact for people, businesses and the environment.
Live activities
Recent projects
Our impact 2020–2022
solar power installed by organisations
tonnes of CO2 will be saved every year by organisations
will be saved from organisations energy bills every year
Zero carbon energy generation
Some of Severn Wye’s most ground-breaking work is in biochar research, exploring its carbon capture and energy generation potential. Two landmark projects in particular are putting Severn Wye on the map and proving what is possible when technology combines with nature-based solutions.
Having just completed the research and development phase, we are partnering with Pure Leapfrog to build a cutting-edge plant under the codename Mersey Biochar. The concept, developed with our partners PyroCore, not only removes carbon from the atmosphere; it tackles two of the biggest challenges in the energy transition: decarbonising heat and providing zero carbon energy at peak demand. A pilot site in Warrington will demonstrate the potential to provide in excess of 15 MWh of zero carbon heat, directly replacing the equivalent use of fossil fuels. What’s more, our aim is to generate opportunities for community-owned and supported, carbon-negative energy solutions that support the local economy, community woodlands and forestry industries.
Carbon capture
In partnership with Dwr Cyrmru Welsh Water we have also pioneered a wastewater remediation model, culminating in the development of a carbonisation demonstrator unit sited in Swindon. The demonstrator showcases how the carbonisation process will turn sewage sludge into carbon-capturing biochar which can be used as an organic fertiliser and to tackle the vast challenges around phosphate management. The unit demonstrates the viability of such a process to be used at scale across water treatment facilities.
Alex Wilcox Brooke
Low Carbon Innovation
Our resident expert in biochar, land management and sustainable fuels - Alex leads a team of experts in our R&D team
Recent news items
Construction underway at pioneering Warrington carbon-capture and low-carbon heat facility
Work has begun at the Mersey Biochar plant in Warrington which aims capture carbon and be the UK’s first provider of local, low-carbon heating.
Plans approved for pioneering Warrington carbon-capture facility
Planning permission has been granted for a state-of-the-art new carbon-capture facility at Lingley Mere business park in Warrington.
Severn Wye and Pure Leapfrog launch the Mersey Biochar project
Severn Wye are delighted to announce the launch of the Mersey Biochar demonstrator, an innovative concept producing zero carbon energy whilst sequestering thousands of tons of CO2.