TWO additional generators which will help power at least 6,000 new homes by turning harmful rubbish gas into "green electricity" have opened at Pitsea tip.

The generators, which will be run by landfill operator Veolia, will be fuelled by carbon dioxide and methane gas produced by rotting household rubbish at the landfill site, off Pitsea Hall Lane.

The first of nine generators at Pitsea tip was opened in December 2005.

MP John Baron was guest of honour at the official opening and cut the ribbon.

He said: "This is a very good thing for everyone as turning this landfill gas, which would otherwise make a significant contribution towards global warming, into a renewable energy source is a double bonus for the environment.

"Even the gas collection system itself is sustainable, as it uses solar and wind power to operate electric pumps in the furthest corners of the site."

Electricity created at Pitsea tip goes straight into a power line, linking it to the National Grid.

Basildon and East Thurrock MP Angela Smith raised concerns Basildon was fast becoming the dumping ground of Essex.

She said: "The principle of turning rubbish into electricity has to be a good thing.

"However, I am concerned we are going to have these extra generators at Pitsea, while there are also plans for an anaerobic digester, which will turn household rubbish into compost, in Courtauld Road, Basildon.

"If we are not careful Basildon and Pitsea is going to be full of lorries taking rubbish to these sites."