EDF Energy has been given the go ahead to build a Combined Cycle Gas Turbine (CCGT) power station in West Burton in Nottinghamshire.

The proposed new station is planned to have a capacity of around 1300MW, enough to supply 1.5 million homes. The project is hoped to curtail the effects of the predicted 'power crunch', or shortfall in generation, which could start as early as 2016 if the apparent under investment in power provision continues.

EDF Energy, which is one of the largest energy companies in the UK, operates two large coal-fired stations in the UK, a smaller gas-fired plant and is also involved in renewable generation capacities.

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The company is also standing by for the Government's announcement on its nuclear programme, and is vying for inclusion in the suggested four new nuclear reactors earmarked for development depending on the Government’s decision.

The energy company made its application to build the new CCGT in December 2005 following the completion of its Environmental Impact Assessment relating to the proposals. The results of the EIA showed that the site was suitable for such a development.

"We're very pleased with [the decision], which marks an important milestone for the project. This planned investment demonstrates EDF Group's long term commitment to the UK.

"We have been consulting on our plans extensively with statutory bodies and local groups since July 2005."

(DW/SP)