Game-changing high voltage electric boiler arrives at Simpsons Malt, marking a major milestone in UK decarbonisation

AMP, in collaboration with Simpsons Malt and contractors Vital Energi, is proud to announce the delivery of a pioneering 12MW high voltage electric boiler at Simpsons Malt’s Tweed Valley Maltings in Berwick-upon-Tweed. This innovative project is set to transform the site’s energy use and plays a crucial role in our partnership with Simpsons Malt to decarbonise industrial heat generation-an essential component in the Scotch Whisky industry’s sustainability efforts.

This innovative electric boiler, a first for the UK, will operate using curtailed wind energy. This is electricity generated by wind farms in Scotland that would otherwise be switched off due to grid constraints. By making use of this previously wasted renewable energy, the electric boiler will ensure optimal renewable electricity utilisation while supporting grid stability. This approach reduces the burden of ‘constraint payments’ on UK consumers, offering a cost-effective solution to the challenges of renewable energy curtailment.

The electric boiler, in conjunction with three 6MW biomass boilers at the site, will slash Simpsons Malt’s carbon emissions by 25,000 tonnes annually-equivalent to the carbon footprint of heating 11,000 homes per year. This reduction represents an 80% cut in Scope 1 and 2 emissions at the Tweed Valley Maltings site, significantly advancing the Scotch Whisky industry’s sustainability goals.

Warren Spiers, Preconstruction Director at Vital Energi, commented on the significance of the project:
“This is a huge investment by AMP Clean Energy and Simpsons Malt, demonstrating their commitment to sustainability and setting a benchmark for the entire food and drink industry. By integrating cutting-edge technologies with an innovative commercial solution, Simpsons Malt is paving the way for a more sustainable future. Their efforts highlight the importance of reducing carbon footprints in traditionally high-emission sectors, showcasing that environmental responsibility and business success can go hand in hand.”

The arrival of this high voltage boiler marks a pivotal milestone in our joint efforts to decarbonise industrial heat generation. It highlights AMP’s pioneering approach to integrating renewable electricity and biomass to deliver flexible, low-carbon energy solutions. By decoupling industrial energy needs from fossil fuel gas, we are creating a blueprint for future decarbonisation projects across the energy intensive sectors.

Steven Rowley, Operations Director at Simpsons Malt, said:
“We’re pleased that our Energy Centre project has taken another big step towards the commissioning stage with the delivery of the 12MW electric boiler. With the Energy Centre delivering up to an 80% reduction in our Scope 1 and 2 emissions at our Tweed Valley Maltings site, and around a 55% reduction company-wide, the project will not only have a significant impact on our own carbon footprint, but also on the Scope 3 emissions of some of the world’s leading whisky brands, which we are proud to supply from our Berwick-upon-Tweed headquarters.”

As a Certified B Corporation, Simpsons Malt shares our commitment to reducing environmental impact and achieving a Net Zero future. The electric boiler will be a key element in their ambition to reach Net Zero Scope 1 emissions by 2030, contributing to a group-wide carbon reduction of approximately 55%. With 90% of the malt produced at the Tweed Valley site going to distilleries, this project not only benefits Simpsons Malt but also supports the wider Scotch Whisky sector in achieving its sustainability goals.

Mark Tarry, CEO of AMP Clean Energy, added:
“This project is a fantastic example of how we can combine innovative technology and renewable energy to deliver substantial carbon savings for energy intensive industries like malt production. The installation of the UK’s pioneering high-voltage electric boiler represents a breakthrough in industrial heat decarbonisation, and we are proud to be leading the way. By partnering with forward thinking companies like Simpsons Malt, we are demonstrating how cutting-edge solutions can replace fossil fuels and drive meaningful environmental benefits. This milestone signals a major leap forward in the energy transition and the wider adoption of renewable technologies across industry.”