THE North-East will continue to lead the way in renewable energy and can expect to be the location for more windfarms, according to research.

The research, by Ernst and Young, said Government targets to increase the amount of renewable energy had increased competition among suppliers to build windfarms.

Jonathan Johns, who leads Ernst and Young's global renewable energy unit, said windfarm projects were also providing attractive returns for investors.

Its report said the UK and Spain had been most successful with windfarm initiatives.

In particular, the North-East has emerged as one of the best areas for windfarms, with 11 sites operating and six planned.

Mr Johns said a key aim for developers was identifying sites that met with public approval so progress to meet the Government targets could increase.

The North-East's popularity for windfarm sites is expected to lead to a jobs boom.

However, some developments have proved controversial.

Protestors recently succeeded in persuading councillors to reject plans for four wind turbines at Southern Law, between Town Kelloe and Trimdon Grange, County Durham, a mile from the Prime Minister's constituency home.