§ 6. Lynne Jones (Birmingham, Selly Oak) (Lab)What his policy is on the encouragement of renewable energy technologies in developing countries. [183723]
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for International Development (Mr. Gareth Thomas)We work alongside a variety of agencies, including the World Bank and the European Union, to promote better access in developing countries to affordable and reliable energy services, including renewable energy, especially to the very poorest and those living in remote and rural areas.
§ Lynne JonesSolar voltaics are close to commercial viability in areas that are not connected to an electricity grid. Will the Government do more, both here and abroad, to support solar energy, because increased demand has been shown to be the best way of reducing costs? That would help more people in developing countries to enjoy improved energy supplies without adding to the demand for fossil fuels.
Mr. ThomasMy hon. Friend is right. Solar voltaics have the potential of offering many of those who live in very rural areas—often the poorest people in developing countries—access to energy. We want to persuade the World Bank to go further than its commitment at the Bonn renewables conference, where it said that it would seek to increase funding for renewables by 20 per cent. in each of the next five years to some $400 million by 2010. It is starting from a low base. We want it to go a little further, but its statement at the Bonn conference was positive.
§ Hywel Williams (Caernarfon) (PC)Does the Minister agree that it would be beneficial for developing countries to take advantage of developments at centres of excellence such as the Centre for Alternative Technology at Machynlleth in Wales? What are the Government doing to assist that?
Mr. ThomasI have visited the excellent centre to which my hon. Friend referred and, after questions, I will reflect on the opportunities for developing countries to take advantage of such expertise.