W.Va. agency give developer OK to issue bonds to build wood-fired power plant

W.Va. agency OKs bonds for wood-fired power plant

CHARLESTON, W.Va. — The developer of a wood-fired power plant in southern West Virginia has won state approval to issue tax-exempt bonds to finance the project’s construction.

The state Economic Development Authority authorized the bond issuance Thursday.

American Clean Energy plans to build the 60-megawatt plant in Mingo County. Company President Tom Loehr says the plant is expected to begin operations by the end of 2011.

The plant would generate electricity by burning wood waste.

Loehr says he plans to finalize contracts with several wood producers soon.