§ Mr. Cryerasked the Secretary of State for Energy how many power stations closed in 1979, 1980 and 1981 or scheduled for closure in 1982 are situated either in or close to urban centres; and if he will assess how many would be suitable for combined heat and power schemes.
§ Mr. Mellor[pursuant to his reply, 25 May 1982, c. 267]: Some 38 power stations in England and Wales were closed or part closed in 1979, 1980 and 1981 or are scheduled for closure or part closure in 1982. Of these, 35 are either situated in or could be considered to be near urban centres. The suitability for CHP depends, inter alia, on there being a local requirement for heat. Selected power station sites are being assessed for suitability as part of my Department's CHP feasibility programme. Three former power station sites have been retained specifically because of the study.