Located at Bombardier’s site at Doagh Road, the biogas unit will generate enough electricity to power 300 homes.
In October 2013, Bombardier has filed an application with the department seeking approval for the construction of a biogas combined heat and power engine unit and associated plant including gas decompression unit, gas storage tank and gas ISO container.
Bombardier will produce biogas at the Newtownabbey site, but will source from suppliers and transport to the site for electricity generation.
Northern Ireland environment minister Mark Durkan said the project approval is a boost for one of the leading businesses which is exploring the benefits of new renewable energy technologies to reduce energy costs and reliance on fossil fuels.
"Renewable energy represents a real market opportunity for industry. This application demonstrates how we can minimise our resource consumption and sustain our environment, whilst boosting our economy.
"This decision has been turned around in just six weeks and represents how a more efficient planning system is delivering the right decisions quickly for business. I will continue to ensure the right decisions are made as quickly as possible and that DOE builds a better environment and a stronger economy," added Durkan.
