RWE will transfer Aberthaw Power Station’s existing Capacity Market agreements for the years 2019/2020 and 2020/2021 to third parties and a small proportion to other units within RWE’s fleet. In doing so it is assured that the total amount of capacity available under the capacity market remains the same.
The decision to close the station will contribute to the company’s goal to reduce its CO2 emissions step by step. Since 2012 RWE has already decreased its CO2 emissions from power generation by 60 million tons per year, which is comparable to taking 30 million cars off the road.
It has been clear for some time that the market conditions for coal-fired power generation in the UK have been challenging. Roger Miesen, Chief Executive Officer of RWE Generation says: “This is a difficult time for everyone at Aberthaw Power Station. However market conditions made this decision necessary.”
Tom Glover, Chief Commercial Officer of RWE Generation and RWE UK Country Chair, says: “For nearly 50 years the plant has played an invaluable role in helping to secure the energy supplies across the UK electricity system and we are very proud of its flexibility and resilience. With our flexible gas and biomass power station portfolio, RWE will remain an important player in the UK energy market.”
Aberthaw B Power Station in Wales has played a critical role in the UK’s power generation mix since it began operations in 1971, establishing strong links with the community and contributing millions of pounds to the local economy. Aberthaw Power Station directly employs around 170 people.
