The proposed plant will primarily use cereal and oilseed rape straw as feedstock and produce enough power to meet the annual power requirements of 62,000 to 68,000 homes in the area.

CO2 emissions to the tune of 120,000t will be reduced as a result of the plant.

The company conducted a comprehensive community consultation program prior to the filling of application for approval and received widespread support.

Iceni Energy CEO Andy Hilton said, "Since we submitted our application Breckland Council has received over 50 letters of support from residents who have recognized the benefits the biomass plant will bring to the area."

Construction of the project is set to commence in 2013 and Iceni will now look to secure the necessary permits for operation of the plant.