Human waste could provide 'poo power' to Rochdale homes

Human sewage could power to Rochdale homes under an innovative trial project based in Manchester.

Methane gas will be extracted from tons of waste, to provide fuel for heating and cooking for up to 5000 homes across Greater Manchester by 2011.

Although sewage from Rochdale does not go to the Davyhulme site, where the project will be based, the fuel provided will be used across the region.

Plans are already in place to use the gas in the national supply grid.

A spokeswoman from United Utilities in the North West explained how methane from food scraps could replace half the gas in the grid, and that the move could be a revolutionary new way to use power.

She added: “It’s all about the poo power.

“Homes in Rochdale could well be getting their heating and cooking power from waste that has been used in Manchester.

"Homes across the region will benefit from the project.”

It is hoped the project will be up and running by 2011.