The remediation of AEC 2 is being undertaken using a specialist technology called in situ thermal treatment. This involves using heating probes to undertake the remediation, which avoids the need for complex excavation and also reduces HGV movements through Clarecastle. The remediation of AEC 2 will be completed by year end 2026.
The source of contamination in the area known as AEC2 was due to original underground storage tanks that were constructed in the mid-1970s when the site was being built.
Over time, these tanks leaked and caused the contamination. Whilst they were removed following a decision to install over ground tanks on the site, remediation of the soil in the vicinity of the original underground tanks is a requirement. This area was identified as requiring remediation under the scope of the overall site decommissioning project.
The initial plan was to excavate this area as part of the remediation process. The ISTT process now being used is a proven technique which effectively removes the nature of contamination in the area requiring remediation. It will achieve the same level of decontamination but provide significant benefits with regard to avoidance of excavation and reduce the level of HGV movements to and from the site.
