EDF favourite to build new nuclear power stations - 31-12-2007 - 09:50

EDF is reportedly the favourite to win the construction contract for a new generation of nuclear power plants in Britain after it agreed a partnership with UK group Amec.

Four new nuclear power plants are set to be announced by the government in the next three weeks and EDF believes it has significantly improved its chances of building them after agreeing the deal with Amec.

An EDF spokesman said: "We expect the involvement of UK companies in any new build to be considerable, but it is too early to say precisely how many jobs will be created."

New plants are set to cost the government around £2 billion each but the consortium that builds them will receive no government money for construction.

The UK's first new nuclear power stations could be in use by 2017, according to EDF UK chief executive Vincent de Rivaz.

EDF energy currently employs over 12,000 people and is the largest energy supplier for London.

Construction of new wind farm to begin in the New Year - 17-12-2007 - 16:15

Construction is set to begin in the New Year on a new wind farm at Achany in Sutherland, after planning permission was granted for the scheme.

The 23-turbine wind farm will be constructed by Scottish and Southern Energy (SSE) and is expected to be completed in 2010.

Ian Marchant, chief executive of SSE, said: "I am pleased that the Achany wind farm has finally received consent, and we will work to ensure that the construction work at the site is carried out efficiently and professionally. We will seek to work in partnership with the local community throughout the construction period."

SSE is also currently seeking planning permission for seven other wind farms on different sites.

The Highland council originally was against the plans but withdrew its objections after an inquiry into the plans was conducted in August.

The Carbon Trust and the Energy Technologies Institute recently announced they are to invest £40 million into offshore wind research and development.