Ports & Infrastructure

Wood Pellet Handling, Storage and Transportation Facility

Tyne & Wear

Client: Port of Tyne

Project: The design, delivery and installation of a wood pellet handling service.

Cost: £75M

Services: Project Management , Quantity Surveying , Employer's Agent

RIBA Project Stages: 0-7

A large-scale international project delivering a fully automated wood pellet import, storage, and transfer facility, supporting UK energy sector transition.

Sergio Duque Del Rio Associate Director "At times it was really intense, especially the point when the hoppers were lifted onto the rails and needed to be in perfect alignment with the wharf conveyor. My thanks to the design team and fantastic collaboration with the entire Anglo-Spanish project team. I am also very proud that we played our part in carbon reduction."

The opportunity

TPI led the development of a specialist biomass facility at the Port of Tyne, forming part of a wider initiative to convert coal-fired power stations to renewable fuel sources. This involved the design, installation, and commissioning of two bespoke rail-mounted wood pellet hoppers, quayside hopper rails, and extensive storage and handling infrastructure. Enabling works included relocating port operations, redeveloping terminal areas, extending rail connections, and delivering a new HV power supply—all managed within a live port environment.

The challenge

The programme’s success hinged on precise coordination and strict deadlines linked to the Port’s contract with the power station. TPI managed the international delivery and installation of automated hoppers manufactured in Spain, ensuring alignment with the UK-based quayside infrastructure. Working in a live port added further complexity, requiring robust stakeholder engagement and meticulous logistics to avoid disruption to ongoing operations.

The outcome

The project was completed on time, avoiding delays to the wider facility construction. The hoppers were successfully delivered, installed, and commissioned in coordination with the Port’s teams, aligning precisely with the conveyor systems. TPI’s structured stakeholder engagement and phased handover process ensured minimal disruption to Port operations throughout. The facility is now fully operational, efficiently handling biomass deliveries and supporting the UK’s shift to renewable energy.

“We have worked with Total Project Integration for over 5 years. Their philosophy, to work closely with their client, has enabled them to understand the unique requirements of the port, and work within our operational framework, culture and ethos. Consequently, the needs of our supply chain such as Lynemouth Power Station, have been very well met.”

Kevin Emmett

Head of Infrastucture Development, Port of Tyne

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