Brockwell is proud to mark the successful first fire at the Westfield Energy Recovery Facility (WERF) in Fife - a major project we originated, developed, and continue to support under a long-term Master Services Agreement (MSA).
The ignition of the burner represents a critical milestone and the culmination of an immense effort by the construction and commissioning teams to complete the plant and certify it as safe for waste combustion - no small feat. The achievement signals the transition into hot commissioning, a rigorous phase involving a series of controlled tests to demonstrate the facility’s readiness for full commercial operations. Energy is already being exported to the National Grid, showcasing the project's early impact on Scotland’s energy system.
Brockwell originally established Westfield Energy Recovery Limited (WERL) and led the full development lifecycle - securing land rights, planning and environmental consents, feedstock contracts, grid connection, financing, and service agreements. We also appointed Hitachi Zosen Inova (now Kanadevia Inova) as EPC and O&M contractor, a global leader in energy-from-waste technology.
Ownership of WERL transferred in 2022 to Viridor and Equitix, who now operate the facility. Brockwell continues to provide oversight and development support through the MSA, ensuring a smooth transition from construction to operation.
Sean McManus, Deputy Project Manager at Brockwell, commented:
This milestone is a testament to the calibre of people involved in the Westfield project. Achieving first fire safely and on schedule reflects the strong 'one team' ethos here, which continues to drive a high-performance culture.
WERF is expected to process 240,000 tonnes of non-recyclable residual waste each year - producing enough electricity to power 55,000 homes - and will play a key role in helping Scotland achieve its Zero Waste and Net Zero ambitions. Beyond energy generation, the site is already delivering local value, with 40 permanent jobs created, a peak construction workforce of 650, and ongoing engagement with local supply chains.
Future opportunities for the site include potential heat network connections and carbon capture infrastructure, positioning WERF as a cornerstone of a cleaner, more circular energy future.