Renewable energy developer Broad Energy is asking the public for its views on a new energy recovery facility which could help Powys generate low-carbon energy capable of powering 20,000 homes.

Plans have been unveiled for the energy recovery facility (ERF) which could be built at Buttington Quarry, Welshpool, and would be designed, built and operated under an Environmental Permit by Hitachi Zosen Inova (HZI), a global leader in delivering energy projects.

It will see up to 150,000 tonnes of non-recyclable waste transformed into low-cost, low-carbon electricity, and create 35 jobs in the county.

The publication of the proposal follows a top-level report which revealed that more than three quarters of Powys' energy requirements were met by renewable energy last year.

Alistair Hilditch-Brown, chief executive of the Broad Group, believes it could help Powys become the first ‘green’ county in Wales.

“The plans have been in development for some time so we are really happy to finally be bringing this project to the public,” he explained.

“We’ve been working incredibly hard behind the scenes to make sure this project is right for all of Powys. It could enable the county to become the leader in terms of green energy."

A six-week consultation period is due to start in the coming months and residents, businesses, local organisations and councillors will be invited to share their views on the development.