'Huge boost' for Greater Manchester as £300m green energy plant to create hundreds of jobs
Summary
Highview says the project will support 700 jobs in construction and the supply chain while its being built.The plant will store power generated by wind turbines - and then release it back into the grid when needed. It means excess electricity generated when its windy wont go to waste, while stored energy can be used when turbines arent spinning.The \xa3300m funding package includes investment from some of the biggest names in business, including mining and metals giant Rio Tinto and investment giant Goldman Sachs.Greater Manchester Metro Mayor Andy Burnham said: My vision is for Greater Manchester to be a leader in the green transition - and Highview Powers decision to build one of the worlds largest long duration energy storage facilities at Carrington is a huge boost for the region. "This new plant will deliver renewable energy to homes and business across our region and bring world-leading technology, jobs, skills and investment to Greater Manchester. Low carbon storage is an essential part of the solution when looking at how we manage peaks in demand.Thats why Im delighted that Centrica is investing in Highview Power. The investment from us and other partners marks a signicant step in helping to build a greener, more resilient and more stable energy infrastructure for generations to come in the UK and beyond.Carrington is also set to be home to another green energy hub, with plans approved for a hydrogen hub aimed at producing green fuel for use in industry and transport.