Why Energy from Waste is the Future of Sustainable Power Generation in the UK

In the face of growing environmental challenges and the UK’s ambitious net-zero targets, the energy landscape is evolving rapidly.

Among the most promising technologies leading the charge is energy from waste (EfW), a solution that not only addresses the country’s growing waste problem but also provides a sustainable source of power generation.

As an expert in power generation recruitment, Kevin Over, Head of Power at Astute People, has observed the increasing demand for talent in this sector and recognises the critical role it plays in the future of the UK’s energy mix.

The Environmental Benefits of Energy-from-Waste

Energy from waste, also known as waste-to-energy, refers to the process of generating electricity and/or heat from the treatment of waste.

It plays a crucial role in reducing landfill dependency and minimising greenhouse gas emissions.

Here’s why EfW is becoming a cornerstone of sustainable power generation in the UK:

1. Reduction of Landfill Waste
   The UK generates millions of tonnes of waste every year.
   In 2021 alone, over 26.4 million tonnes of household waste was produced in England, with around 23% of it going to landfills .
   Traditional landfilling of waste not only takes up valuable space but also leads to the release of harmful methane, a potent greenhouse gas that is 25 times more effective at trapping heat in the atmosphere than carbon dioxide.
   EfW plants help divert significant portions of this waste from landfills.
   By incinerating non-recyclable waste, EfW plants produce energy while significantly reducing the volume of waste.
   For every tonne of waste incinerated, up to 70% can be diverted from landfills .
   This helps in the reduction of methane emissions and contributes directly to the UK’s goals of reducing overall greenhouse gas emissions.
2. Carbon Savings
   One of the most significant environmental benefits of energy-from-waste is its contribution to lowering carbon emissions.
   While the combustion of waste in EfW plants does emit carbon dioxide, the overall lifecycle emissions are much lower than landfilling waste.
   In fact, for every tonne of waste incinerated, the carbon footprint is reduced by an estimated 0.5 tonnes of CO2 compared to traditional disposal methods.
   Furthermore, many modern EfW plants are equipped with carbon capture technology that further reduces the impact of emissions.
   The combination of energy generation with waste management represents a dual-purpose solution for cleaner energy production.
3. Sustainable Energy Source
   EfW plants provide a consistent and reliable source of power, complementing other renewable energy sources such as wind and solar.
   Unlike these intermittent sources, EfW generates energy continuously, making it a valuable contributor to the national grid.
   According to gov.uk, EfW accounted for around 1.7% of the UK’s electricity supply in 2021 .
   Additionally, EfW plants produce both heat and electricity, which makes them particularly suitable for combined heat and power (CHP) applications.
   By utilising both outputs, EfW becomes an even more efficient and sustainable source of power generation.

Types of Roles Available in the Energy-from-Waste Sector

The rise of energy-from-waste technology has spurred significant demand for skilled professionals to operate and maintain these facilities.

Below are some of the most in-demand roles within the EfW sector:

1. Plant Operators and Technicians
   These professionals are responsible for the day-to-day operations of EfW plants, ensuring that the systems are running efficiently and that energy production meets environmental and safety standards.
   Mechanical, electrical, and control & instrumentation (C&I) technicians are crucial for the smooth functioning of the plant’s infrastructure.
2. Process Engineers
   Process engineers play a key role in optimising plant performance.
   They focus on improving the efficiency of waste combustion, energy recovery, and emissions reduction.
   Their work ensures that the EfW plants remain competitive, safe, and environmentally sound.
3. Environmental Managers
   Environmental managers oversee the compliance of EfW plants with UK environmental regulations.
   They monitor emissions, manage waste streams, and ensure the plant’s operations align with sustainability goals.
   This role is crucial for maintaining EfW’s reputation as a green energy solution.
4. Project Managers
   As the UK continues to invest in new EfW facilities, the need for experienced project managers has grown.
   These professionals are tasked with overseeing the planning, construction, and commissioning of new plants, ensuring they are completed on time, within budget, and according to strict environmental guidelines.
5. Health and Safety Officers
   Health and safety in EfW plants is of paramount importance, given the complex and potentially hazardous nature of the materials involved.
   Health and safety officers work to ensure that operational practices adhere to strict regulations and mitigate risks to plant workers and the surrounding community.

Qualifications Needed for the Energy-from-Waste Sector

The qualifications required for roles in the EfW sector depend on the specific job type.

Generally, most technical roles will require a background in engineering, particularly in electrical, mechanical, or chemical engineering.

Below are some typical qualifications needed:

1. Engineering Degrees
   For technical and engineering roles, a degree in mechanical, electrical, or environmental engineering is highly beneficial.
   For more advanced roles like process engineers or plant managers, additional qualifications, such as a Master’s degree in a relevant field, may be required.
2. NVQs and Apprenticeships
   For technician roles, many employers are looking for candidates with NVQ Level 3 in electrical or mechanical engineering.
   Apprenticeships in relevant areas such as power plant operations are also common pathways into the sector.
3. Health and Safety Certifications
   Health and safety officers and environmental managers will typically need qualifications such as NEBOSH or IOSH, which focus on health and safety in operational environments.
4. Chartered Status
   For senior roles, including project management or lead engineering positions, being Chartered with a relevant institution (e.g., the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE) or Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET)) can be advantageous.

Astute People’s Role in Supporting the Energy-from-Waste Industry

At Astute People Inc., we specialise in recruiting top-tier talent for the energy-from-waste industry.

Our deep understanding of the sector allows us to match skilled professionals with leading companies driving the future of sustainable power generation in the UK.

We work closely with EfW plants, developers, and contractors to identify the most critical roles and ensure that our candidates not only meet technical qualifications but also align with the sustainability goals of the industry.

Whether it’s sourcing experienced plant operators, process engineers, or environmental managers, our recruitment solutions are tailored to meet the unique needs of this innovative and growing sector.

By staying up-to-date with the latest industry trends, regulations, and technologies, we provide our clients with the confidence that they are hiring the best talent available to support their mission of sustainable energy generation.

EfW’s vital role

As the UK moves toward a greener future, energy from waste is set to play a vital role in reducing landfill dependency and providing reliable, sustainable power.

With significant environmental benefits and a growing need for skilled professionals, the EfW sector is poised for expansion.

At Astute People, we’re committed to supporting this growth by providing top-tier candidates who are ready to make an impact in the energy-from-waste revolution.

For more information on how Astute People can support your recruitment needs in the EfW sector, contact Astute People today.