§ Mr. FearnTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions if he will provide incentives to local authorities to examine the buildings of solar homes. [4597]
§ Angela EagleLocal planning authorities are required by "Planning Policy Guidance Note 22" to have regard to renewable energy—including solar energy. Detailed technical guidance is freely available from the DTI and my own Department on how to make the most of this energy source.
§ Mr. FearnTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions if he will provide Government funding for solar homes. [4600]
§ Angela EagleIn line with its manifesto commitment to undertake a new and strong drive to develop renewable energy sources, including solar energy, the Government have announced a review of policy in this area. The review includes considerations of what would be necessary and practicable to achieve 10 per cent. of UK's electricity needs from renewables by the year 2010 and how renewables can make an effective contribution to meeting requirements for future greenhouse gas reduction commitments. In the meantime, the Government's new and renewable energy programme, currently under way, will continue.