HC Deb 09 December 1991 vol 200 c602
18. Mr. Rost

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy what representations he has received from the Combined Heat and Power Association about the barriers to the wider use of combined heat and power; and what action he proposes.

Mr. Heathcoat-Amory

My right hon. Friend and I have received a number of representations from the Combined Heat and Power Association. I am aware that the association has provided a review paper to OFFER on the perceived barriers to the development of CHP, and the issues raised are primarily matters for OFFER.

Mr. Rost

Is my hon. Friend aware that the main barrier to CHP is that producers have to sell their electricity to the pool and then buy it back at a much higher—an uplift price? Is not that regulatory nonsense, and what is my hon. Friend going to do about it?

Mr. Heathcoat-Amory

My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State will shortly pronounce on alternative measures and I think that my hon. Friend will be pleased with the outcome.