Electricity (Generating Capacity)

HC Deb 14 May 1981 vol 4 cc337-8W

Mr. Hooley

asked the Secretary of State for Energy what planning margin of electricity generating capacity was used by the Central Electricity Generating Board in 1980; and what were the comparable percentages in each of the European Economic Community countries and the United States of America.

Mr. Norman Lamont

It was 28 per cent. Comparisions with other countries are difficult, and I shall ask the chairman of the board to write to the hon. Member.

Mr. Hooley

asked the Secretary of State for Energy what saving in the forward capital programme of the Central Electricity Generating Board over the next 10 years could be achieved on the basis of a planning margin of capacity of 15 per cent.

Mr. Norman Lamont

I am advised by the CEGB that a reduction to 15 per cent. would produce an unacceptable risk of failure to meet winter peak demand.

I am asking the chairman to write to the hon. Member.