HC Deb 03 July 1986 vol 100 cc1161-2
14. Mr. Galley

asked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what measures have been taken to promote Energy Efficiency Year in Northern Ireland.

Dr. Boyson

Northern Ireland is playing its full part in Energy Efficiency Year through intensive advertising campaigns, seminars, exhibitions, domestic competitions, presentations to schoolchildren and energy saving demonstrations for both the domestic and industrial consumer.

Mr. Galley

What is the total level of energy efficiency savings from specific measures run by my hon. Friend's Department? How far does he expect those savings to increase during Energy Efficiency Year? Perhaps my hon. Friend can also comment on the development of lignite as a contribution to energy efficiency.

Dr. Boyson

Figures show that the investment on energy saving is repaid within three or four years. That is one of the best investments that can he made. Similarly, Government money is helping with insulation in domestic housing. There is no doubt that if we can get lignite at the right price and generate electricity from it, we should be able to reduce the price of electricity in Northern Ireland, to the benefit of domestic consumers. It would also lower the cost of industrial production.

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