Supplying aggregate to sustainable energy park in south Wales

We have completed a challenging project to supply 150,000 tonnes of aggregate from our Machen quarry in south Wales to help create a sustainable energy park.

Machen is the only rail-linked quarry in south Wales and the material was delivered in just 10 weeks to help build a large-scale battery storage facility on the site of the former Uskmouth coal fired power station in Newport.

Moving the material by rail cut the infrastructure programme from 77 weeks to just 10 and delivered a 30 per cent carbon reduction over transporting the material by road, as well as reducing congestion on the road network.

“The main challenge of supplying a project of this size is having the material available over a short period of time,” said Joe Bagnall, Regional Director Aggregates.

“Early engagement with the client, Private Energy Partners, allowed us to manage our stockpiles within the quarry and ensure security of supply.

“Transporting the material via rail enabled a speed of delivery that is impossible to achieve on the roads.”

The Uskmouth facility will allow renewable energy generated from sources such as solar and wind, which is dependent on weather, time of day and season, to be stored in batteries until it is needed, aiding the energy transition.

“We want to be at the centre of sustainable infrastructure development in Wales by supplying the most sustainable products and solutions,” Joe added.

“This ambition supports our commitment to decarbonisation and helping our customers achieve their net zero goals.”