Green light for underground gas storage scheme

US ENERGY group Halite Energy has been given a significant boost in its plans to develop a underground gas storage facility in Lancashire.

The long-running saga – now in its fifth year – has taken a fresh twist on  when energy minister Lord Bourne granted planning consent for the scheme at Preesall.

The facility will be used to store 600 million cubic metres in underground salt caverns. The project may create up to 300 jobs during construction and up to 40 permanent jobs once up and running.

The minister said:”Investment in new energy infrastructure is essential if we are to keep the lights on and bills down. This is a major project which will benefit the local economy by creating jobs and stimulating businesses.

“Gas is also the greenest fossil fuel and helps us lower our carbon emissions, which is important in the UK’s move to a cleaner energy future.”

Halite Energy has welcomed the news. Chief executive Keith Budinger said: “This decision is the culmination of more than four years of detailed work to demonstrate that this facility can be built and operated safely. We look forward to working with the local community to ensure that the people and businesses of Lancashire benefit from our project.”

The company said it will now undertake detailed pre-construction planning and design with a view to commencing construction in the next 12 months.