What is the Tees Valley Energy Recovery Facility (TVERF)?

The TVERF is a £2 billion waste-to-energy facility planned to be built in Northeast England, which will burn up to 450,000 tonnes of household waste annually to generate electricity.

What are the concerns about the TVERF project?

Residents and environmental groups have raised concerns about the potential release of pollutants and greenhouse gases, increased traffic from waste deliveries, and the project's long-term contract with operator Viridor, which could distract from efforts to increase recycling.

Why are the councils involved moving forward with the TVERF project?

Despite the concerns, the councils have largely committed to the project, citing a lack of alternative waste disposal options and the prohibitive costs of withdrawing from the agreement.

Home / Environment / Controversial £2 Billion Waste-to-Energy Facility Moves Ahead in Northeast England

Controversial £2 Billion Waste-to-Energy Facility Moves Ahead in Northeast England

10 Nov

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Summary

Tees Valley Energy Recovery Facility to burn 450,000 tonnes of waste annually
Concerns raised over pollution, traffic, and impact on recycling efforts
29-year contract for operator Viridor with potential 11-year extension

Controversial £2 Billion Waste-to-Energy Facility Moves Ahead in Northeast England

In November 2025, a controversial £2 billion waste-to-energy facility is poised to move forward in Northeast England, despite ongoing concerns from local communities. The Tees Valley Energy Recovery Facility (TVERF) is expected to receive financial approval in early 2026, paving the way for full construction to begin later that year.

The TVERF project would see the facility burn up to 450,000 tonnes of household waste annually from seven council areas, converting it into energy. However, the plan has faced criticism from residents and environmental groups, who worry about the potential release of pollutants and greenhouse gases in an already heavily polluted region. There are also concerns that the long-term contract with operator Viridor, which could last up to 40 years, could distract from efforts to increase recycling.