The proposal would see the world's first industrial-scale hydrogen power scheme based in the Aberdeenshire town.

It would generate 'carbon-free' electricity from hydrogen, reducing greenhouse gas emissions by capturing carbon dioxide (CO2) and safely storing it.

'Clear signal'

Energy firms have teamed up to investigate the feasibility of the carbon capture and storage (CCS) scheme costing hundreds of millions of pounds.

The plan has won praise from energy experts, environmental campaigners and politicians alike for pointing the way forward.

A BP spokesperson warned: "What we are looking for is a clear signal by the turn of the year that the government not only sees this as part of the solution to climate change but that it is prepared to put money behind it."

Banff and Buchan MP Alex Salmond, a supporter of the project, called for government backing, and said: "I think we have a bit of negotiation going on."

The SNP leader said: "It's the most important European energy project in the last decade."

Energy Minister Malcolm Wicks confirmed further CCS measures would be outlined in a pre-budget report later this year.