Combined Heat and Power

HC Deb 25 March 1991 vol 188 cc601-2

19. Mr. Page

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy how many combined heat and power schemes are in operation throughout the United Kingdom.

Mr. Heathcoat-Amory

My Department's current estimate is that there are more than 500 sites in the United Kingdom using combined heat and power technology.

Mr. Page

Is it not true that combined heat and power is more efficient and produces less carbon dioxide, which is important in terms of minimising the greenhouse effect? What are the Government doing to ensure that within their own Departments, including the Ministry of Defence, such energy-saving methods are introduced for the benefit of the whole country?

Mr. Heathcoat-Amory

My hon. Friend is right to say that the combined use of heat and power at appropriate sites is a good way to reduce the output of greenhouse gases. My Energy Efficiency Office operates a vigorous programme to educate and inform potential users about that technology.