Gaia Power Director Alex Dickinson said “We considered many, large European companies but none could offer the experience and track record for delivering this type of project compared to Aker Solutions.”
Alex Dickinson, director of Gaia Power, said: “We considered many, large European companies but none could offer the experience and track record for delivering this type of project compared to Aker Solutions.
“The fact that they too are a locally-based company speaks volumes about the capabilities of the Tees Valley.”
David Ley, managing director of Aker Solutions’ Stockton office, said: “With our strong capability in designing and building biomass-fuelled power plants, we look forward to working with Gaia Power on this exciting development.
“With our experience and involvement in new energy and environmental segments such as biofuels, wind power and carbon capture and storage, the Gaia project is a further demonstration of our commitment to being part of the solution to these challenges.
“The fact that this is a totally local initiative makes it all the more satisfying.”
Neil Kenley, strategic investment and marketing director at Tees Valley Regeneration, said: “The announcement that Gaia Power has struck a deal with Aker Solutions is fantastic news and a great boost for the Tees Valley.
“It is a real vote of confidence for the Tees Valley’s business and industry community.
“We hope its success will act as a catalyst for further investment and job creation.”
Richard Poundford, of Stockton Council, said: “The project is still subject to planning permission, however this is a perfect case study of how major developments can have a wider benefit to the community both in terms of the project itself, as well as the opportunities to create direct employment, and indirect employment through the supply chain.
“I am not surprised that Gaia has selected Aker Solutions as they are a tremendous locally-based business.”
The power station will burn recycled wood chippings to generate power Gaia chose recycled wood to power the plant because it is a carbon neutral renewable fuel that meets the criteria of the Government’s Renewable Energy Directive.
