Environment Agency issues permit variation for Powerfuel Portland

The Environment Agency has issued a permit variation for Powerfuel Portland Limited to change the permitted waste types that can be incinerated at their proposed Portland facility. 

A consultation on the draft decision to issue the variation took place between 19 June 2026 and 31 July 2026, and approximately 296 comments were received. 

The Environment Agency has explored several concerns raised by members of the public, such as emissions to air, odour, noise and arrangements for the storage and handling of wastes, and is satisfied that effective control measures will be in place for these. 

The Environment Agency can only refuse a permit application if it does not meet one or more of the legal requirements under environmental legislation, including if it will cause significant harm to the environment or to human health. 

The planning and permitting processes are separate from each other. The Agency cannot consider planning issues such as the suitability of the location or traffic concerns. 

If all the requirements are met, the Environment Agency is legally obliged to issue a permit. 

An Environment Agency spokesperson said: 

Protecting the environment and enabling waste infrastructure go hand-in-hand. 

We are satisfied that the permit for Portland Powerfuel will ensure a high level of protection for the environment.”