Drax Group could cut 350 jobs in restructuring

Renewable energy firm Drax Group said on Wednesday that it has launched a consultation process that could result in the loss of 350 jobs in the UK and North America, or 10% of the workforce.

A spokesperson for Drax said: "As the global business and energy landscape continues to develop, we’re evolving our strategy to ensure we’re building a strong, resilient business for the future.

"The recent signing of the low-carbon dispatchable CfD agreement is recognition of the important role that Drax Power Station will continue to play for UK energy security into the 2030s.

"Moving forwards, we’re focused on driving growth in our flexible generation business, creating new options and opportunities at Drax Power Station beyond 2031, and advancing future uses of sustainable biomass.

"To help realise these opportunities, we’re adapting our organisational structure. As a part of that process, we are commencing a consultation process in the UK, and will be briefing colleagues in North America on changes that could result in a reduction of more than 350 roles across the Drax Group."

Union Unite said in a statement that the potential job cuts were "shameful".

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: "It is shameful that a firm making billions such as Drax is choosing to target its staff. It is morally wrong that workers, their families and local communities pay the price for corporate greed.

"Drax has serious questions to answer about the rationale for this decision. A just transition needs more energy workers with expertise, not fewer, to succeed.

"Unite will not stand by and allow these highly skilled energy workers to lose their jobs."

Headquartered in Selby, Yorkshire, Drax has 3,250 employees worldwide.