ETEC develops green energy plant

In Texas, US, East Texas Electric Cooperative (ETEC) is developing a 50MW biomass plant.

Expected to begin operations some time in 2013, the power plant will convert woodchips, bark and sawdust sourced from nearby logging businesses within a 50-mile radius, into renewable power.

It has been reported that $40 million (€28.7 million) worth of clean, renewable energy bonds so far have been allocated to help finance the project and ETEC is in the process of applying for more funding.

Speaking about the power plant Ryan Thomas, CFO at ETEC, says: 'Instead of being totally reliant on fossil fuels, it's a renewable piece of the pie.'

Throughout the construction period around 250 jobs will become available, in addition to 32 full-time positions, once operations begin.

ETEC is expected to break ground on the project in 2012.