The plant has been in operation since December 2006 but Peter Hain formally opened the £50m facility on last Friday in order to promote biofuels and other renewable energy sources.

UPM is playing a crucial role in helping us to reduce carbon emissions,” said Mr Hain. “Their use of biofuels and recycled materials are exemplars of how we should all approach the serious task of reducing CO2 emissions and minimising environmental impact.”

UPM Shotton’s plant is set to produce up to 95% of the company’s heat requirments and a quarter of its power demands, as well as reducing CO2 emissions by 30,000 tonnes a year.