A Norfolk energy firm behind plans to build a controversial energy plant has vowed to work in partnership with a similar station in Suffolk to avoid competing for limited straw supplies.

Snetterton-based Iceni Energy Ltd will work in partnership with Eco2 in Mendlesham to build the two energy plants.

According to the developers, the collaborative approach will ensure a 'smooth supply chain' for raw material and 'streamline' their working relationships with the local agricultural industry. The companies have agreed to focus on the development of Snetterton Renewable Energy Plant, for which they already have planning permission, first.

The total investment will be £200m.

Andrew Hilton, managing director of Iceni Energy, the firm behind the Snetterton development, said: 'Iceni Energy has an intimate understanding of agriculture in East Anglia. Eco2 has a proven track record in getting projects through the financing process and into construction.

'It makes perfect sense to be working together for the good of both projects. We look forward to securing a sustainable future for the region in which agriculture and technology can prosper together.'

The Snetterton Renewable Energy Plant, just off the A11, is set to be a 40-megawatt straw-fired power station which will be fuelled by a combination of cereal straw, oil seed rape straw and wood chip. It achieved planning consent in July 2012. At the time, objectors raised concerns about an increase in traffic and a rise in straw prices, noise and light pollution.

Under proposals, Mendlesham Renewable Energy Plant will be a similar development.

The project is expected to go before planners in the coming weeks.