Smurfit Kappa’s new CHP at Kent paper mill becomes operational

The new combined heat and power plant is estimated to cut the mill’s carbon footprint by at least 15%. Credit: Smurfit Kappa.

Smurfit Kappa has brought a combined heat and power plant (CHP) onstream at its Townsend Hook paper mill in Kent, UK, to cut emissions and improve profitability.

The new CHP is designed to provide steam and electricity for the paper machine. It is expected to reduce the mill’s carbon footprint by at least 15%.

The company made enhancements to the mill, including the capabilities of the paper machine to cater to the growing demand in the UK and Ireland for lightweight containerboard, which is used to make corrugated packaging.

Smurfit Kappa Recycled Paper West CEO Jelte Bouma said: “We are delighted to have started operating the new CHP in Townsend Hook a month ahead of schedule.

“The increased capability and efficiencies will help us to deliver an even better service to customers. The environmental benefits associated with the new project are also in line with the wider strategic sustainability priorities of Smurfit Kappa.”

Smurfit Kappa’s European paper mills, including the Townsend Hook mill, are all connected by a single, optimised supply chain system.

Earlier this year, the company revealed that it achieved its fossil carbon dioxide emission reduction target.

Last week, the firm disclosed its decision to deconsolidate its Venezuelan operations, Smurfit Kappa Carton de Venezuela (SKCV), following the government’s attempt to seize the unit.

The company noted that it lost control over the operations and hence passed all responsibility for the operations and regulatory compliance to the state.

SKCV, which has been providing goods and services to its customers in Venezuela for almost 65 years, offered employment to almost 1,600 direct employees.