Hundreds of jobs could be created after plans for a new biomass plant moved closer.
Lynemouth Power Station, which plans to switch from coal to biomass in 2015, has been chosen as one of eight recipients of contracts from the Government that offer a fixed price for renewable electricity production for 15 years.
Managing Director of Lynemouth Power Bob Huntington said it was a great boost for the project and the local area.
Wansbeck MP Ian Lavery added: “This is excellent news as it means it will enable RWE and Lynemouth Power to convert from coal to biomass knowing full well that they have the go-ahead of the Government in terms of a contract for difference.
“It gives RWE the confidence in investing and it will bring up to 420 jobs to construct the converted plant, which is fantastic. They are temporary jobs, but it is still jobs in the region, which is extremely important.”
Berwick MP Sir Alan Beith, who recently visited the plant, said: “I have been working with RWE, which owns the power station, and with Ministers Edward Davey and Danny Alexander to secure the plans to convert the power station.
“Making sure the Government is aware of the importance of this project for employment in the area has been crucial as Lynemouth Power employs around 200 people and the conversion from coal to biomass secures these jobs, as well as creating more work during the conversion process.”