Barking

Combined-Cycle Generation Plant

The 1,000-megawatt Barking Power Plant in east London is a unique venture for many reasons. It was the first independent power project in southeast England and the first large generating station to be built in Greater London in more than 30 years. The plant uses an advanced combined-cycle technology that enhances fuel efficiency and reduces emissions.

Thames Power Limited, the project developer, was established in 1988 by BICC plc, now Balfour Beatty plc, an international engineering and cable manufacturer. Canadian Utilities joined Thames Power as operating partner in 1989. 

CU Power International, now ATCO Power seconded a number of its senior executives to lead Thames Power's efforts to secure necessary site agreements, financial arrangements and the turnkey construction contract. Under supervision by ATCO Power, in its role as the owners' engineer, construction was completed on time and significantly under budget. 

ATCO holds a 50% stake in Thames Power which in turn owns 51% of the Barking project. 72.5% of the plant's output is sold directly to two Regional Electricity Companies (RECs). These include London Electricity Group plc and SSE Energy Supply Limited. Affiliates of these two REC's hold the remaining 49% ownership interest in the plant.  The balance of the Plant's output is now sold into Merchant Markets.

ATCO Power, through its role in Thames Power Services’ affiliate, is responsible for all operations, maintenance and business activities of Barking Power. Commercial operations began in mid-1995 and since that time the plant has performed well. 

With NOx emissions as low as 25% of approved levels, the plant has one of the best environmental records in Europe for a gas-fired power plant. 

In July 1997, following completion of construction and initial years of successful operation, the project was refinanced to take maximum advantage of market conditions and the reduced risk profile of the project. The funding facilities are now provided by a syndicate of 28 international banks from three continents. 

The Barking project provided an opportunity for ATCO Power to demonstrate its credentials in working with partners, customers and suppliers to bring a project through a broad range of complex technical, regulatory and organizational challenges.