Plan for a new gas to energy project in Banchory have moved a step closer with approval from Aberdeenshire councillors.Members of the Policy and Resources Committee approved a contract to explore and develop a microgeneration project at the Crow’s Nest landfill site in Banchory. The project will turn gas produced by the site into energy which the council will use to power the local household waste recycling centre and other nearby projects.The project, which could save more than 160 tonnes of carbon per year, will go some way towards helping the council meet strict greenhouse gas emission targets. All gas produced from this site is currently burned off by an on-site flare, to meet the standards of the permit issued by the Scottish Environment Protection agency.The landfill site was originally closed in 2010.Further reports will be presented to councillors at a future date to update councillors on progress.