EDF is to build a windfarm off the north east English coast next year which would generate enough electricity to power most of the homes in Redcar and Cleveland.

The Tees Offshore Windfarm will comprise 27 turbines and be situated 1.5km from the shore.

At 62 MW, the windfarm will create enough green electricity to power up to 40,000 households as part of EDF’s commitment to invest in around 1,000 MW of UK renewable energy production by 2012.

“The EDF Energy Renewables project has all the internal approvals and external consents it requires and is on track for commissioning in 2012,” an EDF spokesperson said.

“Onshore grid works by Northern Electric Distribution will start this year and offshore works will start during the course of 2011, with full commissioning in 2012.”