Biomass power plant jobs hope dashed

DENMARK'S biggest energy company has pulled the plug on plans to build a biomass power plant in Hull, which would have created hundreds of jobs.

The state-owned Dong Energy said it was no longer pursuing plans for the largely wood-burning power station near Queen Elizabeth Dock, which it was hoped would put the region at the forefront of developments in renewable energy.

It is thought the project, named Humber Renewables, would have created 800 construction jobs and employed more than 50 people at the 40-acre site, which is owned by Associated British Ports.

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The company said in a statement: "The decision to withdraw from the Humber Renewables project is based purely on wider strategic considerations within Dong Energy.

"The company has taken the strategic decision to focus on core activities such as gas-fired power stations and off-shore wind developments. Sadly, this means we must withdraw our proposals to build a biomass power station near Hull."

City Council leader Carl Minns said he was disappointed but added that Hull still had a role to play in hosting renewable energy projects.

"I am disappointed by the decision by Dong Energy to withdraw from the Hull biomass power generation project," he said.

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"I understand and fully respect their reasons behind their decision and welcome their intent to concentrate upon offshore wind power generation, where I am anxious to explore mutual benefits as Hull has firmly set out its vision as a centre for renewable energy production for the 21st century."

Associated British Ports said that the scheme would have acted as a catalyst for the construction of its proposed new cargo terminal alongside the power station.

The proposed biomass plant would have generated enough electricity to power 500,000 homes.