§ 2. Mr. Spearingasked the Secretary of State for Energy what progress he has made in the implementation of schemes for combined heat and power.
§ Mr. John MooreI announced on 12 March the nine areas where more detailed work under our CHP feasibility programme will be undertaken. We are currently appointing sub-consultants to assist the lead consultants in this work by carrying out market and engineering surveys in these areas.
§ Mr. SpearingWhen does the Minister expect the studies to be completed? Does he agree that in certain circumstances combined heat and power could be a most effective way of saving energy in a future fuel crisis?
§ Mr. MooreI recognise the hon. Gentleman's last point, and also his constituency interest. The studies under way are expected to continue until the autumn or early winter.
§ Mr. RostWhat are the Government doing to remove existing obstacles and to provide more incentives for the private development of CHP in industry, in partnership with local authorities?
§ Mr. MooreMy hon. Friend has a long history of knowledge and detailed involvement in this matter. He may recall that the last time we discussed this topic in the House I said that the Government did not envisage any legislative inhibitions to the development of industrial CHP.
§ Mr. HooleyWill the Minister confirm that Sheffield is being seriously considered as an area in which the experimental scheme will take place?