By Ruggero Pellegrin, Managing Director Esseco UK
At Esseco UK, every new project is an opportunity to align our technical goals with our environmental and social values. Our recent investment in a new sulphur burner and waste heat recovery system at our Wakefield site is a perfect example of this approach in action reflecting not only our commitment to innovation but also our belief that engineering excellence must serve a greater purpose.
A decisive step forward
When we began the journey to replace our aging sulphur burner, we quickly saw that we had a rare opportunity to do something more ambitious. Rather than opting for a like-for-like solution, we made the strategic decision to implement a modern system that could do more in terms of efficiency and sustainability.
The result is a new sulphur burner that not only doubles the capacity of the previous unit, it improves process reliability, and significantly reduces our environmental impact. By recovering the heat generated from sulphur combustion, we now produce the steam that powers all seven of our on-site plants. Moreover, we convert part of that steam into electricity, covering over 20% of our plant’s energy needs.
Driving real environmental impact
This project has transformed how we operate. It has allowed us to cut fossil fuel usage by 95% and reduce our site’s carbon footprint by 68%. These numbers represent more than just engineering milestones; they reflect our deep responsibility to reduce our impact on the planet.
Creating high-quality jobs and supporting our region
The benefits of this initiative go beyond technology and energy. With more advanced and reliable infrastructure, we are able to create high-quality jobs that support our teams’ development and contribute to the economic vitality of the Wakefield region. This alignment of industrial progress and community wellbeing is something I am personally proud of.
Strengthening national infrastructure
Esseco UK is also a key supplier to the UK’s critical national infrastructure. From airports and food production to water and energy services, our products serve industries that are essential to the functioning of the country. The improved resilience and reliability of our new sulphur burner ensure that we can meet the demands of these sectors without disruption.
Looking ahead
I believe the performance of a chemical company should be measured not only by financial outcomes but by the positive impact it has on people, communities, and the environment.
For me, this project is not just an achievement—it’s a signal of who we are and the direction we’re heading. At Esseco UK, we are committed to building a more sustainable, resilient and responsible future.
