SEATTLE - Areva, the international energy company based in France, and Charlotte, N.C., based Duke Energy have formed a joint venture to build a biomass energy plant at Shelton.
The joint venture called ADAGE plans to spend $250 million on the plant that would burn logging waste and generate enough electricity to power 40,000 homes.
The project involves collecting, bundling, and transporting branches and other wood debris from regional logging operations to the ADAGE biomass power facility.
The Seattle Daily Journal of Commerce reports Adage chose Shelton because of its proximity to logging operations.
ADAGE spokesman Jarret Adams said more than 400 jobs will be created when construction begins later this year. More than 100 workers will operate the facility when it opens in 2013.
"ADAGE came to Washington nearly one year ago because of the great potential in the region for sustainable biomass. This alliance and the Mason County project are an extension of that vision and can become a new economic engine for the state," said Reed Wills, President of ADAGE. "The project will combine state-of-the-art biomass power technology with innovative forestry equipment that can make Washington a leader in the industry. We believe that building a vibrant biomass industry means new jobs, healthier forests, and a stronger energy portfolio for Washington."
ADAGE says construction is expected to begin in late 2010. The company is planning to build other biomass plants in the Northwest.
