The regional government in Austria has approved the development of two biomass power plants. RZ Pellets (Riegler & Zechmeister Group) is planning to build two 35 MWth biomass plants in Klagenfurt, the capital of the federal state of Carinthia in Austria, having overcome legal challenges to the developments. The plants will provide district heating for around 25,000 households.

The plant in the north of Klagenfurt will generate 5 MW, while the plant in the east will generate 10 MW. The total cost of both projects is $102 million (EUR 94 million).

RZ originally gained planning permission in November 2013, but has faced various protests and legal challenges. The first permit was revoked by the State Administrative Court of Carinthia after complaints from some residents. On this past February10, the City of Klagenfurt reported that it has granted approval for the projects to go ahead.

Work on the biomass facilities will start immediately. They are scheduled to be operating this November 1.