Caithness Energy LLC angered some Yaphank residents Wednesday as it took the next step in building a proposed power plant.

Caithness awarded Siemens USA a multimillion-dollar contract to supply the 350-megawatt plant's main turbine. Caithness officials say the Yaphank plant would produce much cleaner energy than facilities in Northport and Port Jefferson. Critics complain Caithness awarded the contract prematurely. They say a handful of lawsuits opposing the plant are pending and they've filed a petition for a new hearing with the Town of Brookhaven.

Meanwhile, the project has already received approval from state, federal and Brookhaven agencies. Once Caithness receives building permits from the town, construction could start in as few as 60 days.

To watch previous News 12 Long Island coverage of the Caithness power plant project, go to channel 612 on your iO digital cable box and select iO Extra.

Related Information: Caithness Energy LLCSiemens USABrookhaven town officials change tune over proposed power plant