Kingsnorth is a 1940MW dual-fired power station. This means that each of its four main units is capable of using both coal and oil. Kingsnorth also has the capability to burn biomass products, which can replace up to 10% of the coal used in generation; this is dependent on coal type. Typically the biomass used is a cereal co-product which is sourced from the UK and Europe.

In October 2006, we announced plans to build two new cleaner coal units at Kingsnorth. Other actions taken to minimise our environmental impact at Kingsnorth include low NOx Burners and SO3 injection to improve precipitator performance.

There is also a once-through cooling water system at Kingsnorth which means that there are no evaporation losses or concentration effect, thus reducing environmental impact on the river. The onsite waste management plan means that general waste is minimised and paper, cardboard, scrap metal and waste oils are recycled. Furnace bottom ash and pulverised fuel ash are sold to the construction industry; this reduces our landfill requirements.

Protecting the Environment at Kingsnorth

On three sides the Kingsnorth site adjoins the Medway Estuary Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and Ramsar Special Protection Area (SPA). The salt marsh island of Oakham is within the SSSI and is run by the power station as a nature reserve. It is used by thousands of wildfowl and waders during migration periods and also supports nesting avocets. One of the Bobtailed Godwits ringed at Kingsnorth has been tracked to Portugal, then to Holland and onto Iceland.

As well as normal coppicing and pollarding in the nature reserve, an area has been selectively thinned to create a stand of silver birch woodland. Two new species of orchid, the Broad Leaved Helleborine and the Autumn Lady's-tresses have been found here. Additionally, two new species of bird have been seen here – bringing the site list up to 200.

Community

Kingsnorth and Grain, its sister power station located close by, play a very active role in the local community. The facilities have received both regional and national awards for providing a place where visitors may interact with the environment. Visitors range from local schools and colleges, to scouting and community groups.