Laidlaw Energy Group, Inc.(fka LLEG)

[ZEPrules]

Associated Press - September 28, 2010 7:25 AM ET

CONCORD, N.H. (AP) - The state of New Hampshire has given final approval to a plan to convert an idled Berlin paper mill into a wood-fired electric generating plant.

Michael Bartoszek of Laidlaw Energy says officials are thrilled. They hope to begin construction by the end of the year.

The state approved the $170 million plan on the condition Laidlaw have an agreement in place to sell the electricity to the Public Service Company of New Hampshire. The Public Utilities Commission is expected to approve that deal on Wednesday.

Bartoszek tells the New Hampshire Union Leader 250 workers will be needed to convert the idled Fraser pulp mill into a generating plant.

The plant will also create jobs for loggers who will provide fuel for the plant.