The new combined heat and power station at Golden Vale's milk processing facility in Charleville, Co Cork, was officially opened by the Minister of State for Public Enterprise, Mr Joe Jacob, yesterday. The facility allows for the simultaneous production of electricity and steam from natural gas supplies and generates virtually all the power required at the Charleville site.

The plant saves about 20 per cent in energy costs. Golden Vale is examining the viability of introducing it to other major facilities, according to managing director Mr Jim Murphy.