Mass. DEP signs off on proposed power plant

July 22, 2011

Massachusetts environmental officials have approved construction of a natural gas-fired power plant in Brockton that’s facing stiff local opposition.

The state Department of Environmental Protection approved the Brockton Clean Energy plant in a letter dated Wednesday, saying it met state and federal clean air standards.

The project still faces heavy opposition, including from the city council and mayor. Among the concerns: its effect on air quality.

Parent company Advanced Power Services proposed the project in 2007 and aims to begin operations in 2014. The 350-megawatt plant would power 230,000 homes.

In its ruling, the DEP said the project would have environmental costs, including emissions that pollution controls must minimize. But it said those costs are outweighed by benefits such as a projected 750 jobs during construction and $1.5 million in annual tax payments.

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