HC Deb 25 April 1967 vol 745 cc257-8W
99. Mr. Blaker

asked the Minister of Power what average proportion of generating plant was unavailable in 1964–65, 1965–66 and 1966–67 winters, respectively, due to breakdown; and what estimate is made of the probable breakdown percentage in the winters of 1970–71 and 1971–72.

Mr. Freeson

The reduction of capacity due to breakdown, averaged over the months of December and January in each of the winters 1964–65, 1965–66 and 1966–67, was 8.8 per cent., 12.2 per cent. and 11.3 per cent. respectively.

For the winters of 1970–71 and 1971–72 a breakdown percentage of about 10 per cent. has been allowed for.

126. Mr. Sharples

asked the Minister of Power what allowances have been made in planning for 1970 and 1971, res- pectively, for electricity generating plant falling behind the commissioning programme.

Mr. Marsh

In planning for 1970 and 1971 the Central Electricity Generating Board has allowed for a delay of up to 12 months in commissioning two generating sets.