Following a public inquiry, it appears the development will now go ahead.
A long and high-profile campaign has been actively opposing the Invergordon scheme. Local land-owner Mohamed Al Fayed is among those objecting the proposal.
Objectors claim pollution from the plant would damage local people's health.
But a Scottish government planning reporter has said there is no evidence to back up those claims.
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The proposed waste incinerator will be situated at the Cromarty Firth Industrial Park.
It has been the subject of lengthy legal complications.
The development was originally turned down by Highland Councillors amid concerns that emissions could cause health problems.
It was also feared it could increase traffic on the already notorious Tomich junction on the A9.
But the company behind the scheme, Combined Heat and Power, launched an appeal against the council's decision, leading to a public inquiry earlier this year.
Scottish government planning reporter Richard Dent is now supporting the developer.
He said although public concern was widespread and sincere, it was not enough to warrant the refusal of planning permission.
Local councillor Maxine Smith has described the ruling as "disgraceful."
(IT)
