City of Rockingham supports recommendations for proposed waste to energy facility

THE City of Rockingham supported recommendations for proposed waste to energy facility at Tuesday night’s council meeting.

Councillors adopted the responsible authority report for the proposed facility at Office Road in East Rockingham.

The proposed facility will now be considered by the Metro South West Joint Development Assessment Panel.

The facility will have an administration building, waste bunker, combustion system, boiler, bottom ash handling and treatment area. It will generate on average 190 vehicle movements per day and be staffed by 20 employees.

The maximum capacity of the facility will be 101.8 megawatt thermal (MWt), which will result in the generation of 31.4MW of electricity.

The facility, including the combustion process, will operate 24-7.

The council received five submissions to the plan, with only one objection.

The City of Kwinana raised concerns about the location of the facility and the effects on air quality for Calista, Leda and Medina residents.

A City of Rockingham report said the applicant had demonstrated that impacts associated with the proposed development could be managed to an acceptable standard.

During question time, Shoalwater resident James Mumme raised concerns about greenhouse and cumulative particulate emissions.

Cr Andrew Burns said it was not something he could support and council should focus on waste reduction.

The vote was tied 5-5 before Mayor Barry Sammels voted in favour of the report.