HC Deb 17 February 1986 vol 92 cc2-3
2. Mr. Chope

asked the Secretary of State for Energy if he will make a statement on the objectives of his Department's policy on wind energy.

The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Energy (Mr. David Hunt)

We currently consider wind energy to be the most promising renewable energy source for electricity generation in the United Kingdom. Our policy is to demonstrate the technical and economic feasibility of large wind turbines, to assess their environmental impact and to encourage research and development aimed at cost reductions and improved performance.

Mr. Chope

Does my hon. Friend agree that there is enormous export potential in this area? Is he aware that a company in my constituency has earned £2.5 million in the last year by making wind turbine blades for export? Will he ensure that research programmes are properly funded so that we can maximise our export potential?

Mr. Hunt

I am pleased to endorse my hon. Friend's remarks and to pay tribute to the company in his constituency. Since 1979 the Government have spent more than £16 million on research and development into the use of wind energy. For the current financial year, our estimated spend is more than £6.5 million.

Mr. O'Brien

In view of the Minister's reply, will he explain why the installation of a wind turbine at Richborough is not yet on stream, even though planning consent was given in 1984? What minor altrerations must be made to the planning consent so that it can come on stream?

Mr. Hunt

The hon. Gentleman is wrong to draw that conclusion. A number of developments are proceeding. This country is in the van of technological and technical advances.

On the Richborough development, we recently announced departmental support for the 1MW machine to be built by James Howden and Company Ltd.

Mr. Rost

Will my hon. Friend carefully consider the complaints from one or two private generators of wind power that they are not receiving from area boards the fair deal to which they are entitled under the Energy Act? If he does not deal with that problem, potential will be put at risk.

Mr. Hunt

I am as anxious as my hon. Friend to realise potential. I shall certainly consider any cases that he brings to my attention.