HC Deb 23 February 1981 vol 999 cc644-5
11. Mr. Hooley

asked the Secretary of State for Energy how many local authorities have expressed interest in developing experimental combined heat and power schemes.

Mr. John Moore

Thirty-two local authorities have expressed some interest in the Government's CHP feasibility programme. However, some of these relate to the same candidate for possible lead city status; for example, South Yorkshire county council has supported the city of Sheffield's claims.

Mr. Hooley

Is the Minister aware that Sheffield is very keen to take part in the scheme? Such experiments could have far-reaching consequences for energy conservation—far beyond the other programmes that we have so far.

Mr. Moore

I am very much aware of the support of the Members of Parliament in the Sheffield area and of Sheffield city council for Sheffield's place in the scheme. The six areas that have been recommended are Glasgow, Newcastle, East-Central London, Sheffield, Belfast and Liverpool. There is extensive interest in, and support for, the lead city scheme proposals.

Mr. Rost

As it is estimated that there are already about 3,000 district combined heat and power schemes in non-Communist, Western Europe, making a major contribution to supplying the consumer with waste heat, and benefiting the economy, does my hon. Friend not think that perhaps we are moving just a little cautiously in removing the obstacles that prevent it from developing here—apart from just one lead city scheme?

Mr. Moore

I acknowledge my hon. Friend's long interest in, and support for, combined heat and power and district heating. I think that the Government are moving as fast as they can, when they must recognise that ultimately they are talking about the expenditure of public money.