In addition the company has announced that operations structures at Sandbach, Castleford and Thornhill CCGT facilities will also be altered to further reduce costs reflecting the new realities of running generation CCGT sites in the current economic climate. These facilities can provide up to 162MWe to the grid when required.

E.ON is working closely with employees and contractors across the four sites to discuss potential options during and beyond the restructuring process.

Commenting on the announcement Richard Pennells, E.ON’s UK Country Director Steam and CCGT, said:

"Our absolute priorities are working to support our colleagues and contractors through this change.

"Over the last five years E.ON has invested over £6bn in the UK’s energy infrastructure but there is no doubt that the operational environment remains very challenging, particularly for CCGT power stations which in many areas are continuing to fight for survival in the current market, providing increasing uncertainty around future generating capacity planning."