HC Deb 04 April 2001 vol 366 cc206-7W
Maria Eagle

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry when he will announce his decision on BP Energy Ltd.'s proposal to build a combined heat and power gas-fired power station at the Jaguar works at Halewood. [157220]

Mr. Byers

I have today given consent under section 36 of the Electricity Act 1989 to BP Energy Ltd. and clearance under section 14(1) of the Energy Act 1976, to build a 70 megawatt gas-fired combined heat and power station at the Jaguar works at Halewood near Liverpool. Planning permission for the station was granted subject to 51 conditions agreed with Knowsley Metropolitan borough council.

Combined heat and power plants are designed to produce both electricity and usable heat. They have environmental benefits due to their high levels of energy efficiency.

The decision demonstrates the Government's continuing commitment to promote CHP, wherever practicable, and our commitment to reducing emissions of greenhouse gases to fulfil the promises we gave at Kyoto.

The decision also shows the commitment of Ford to Merseyside as the power station will supply the current and future needs of the Jaguar works which will shortly be producing a new range.

Copies of the press notice and decision letter are being placed in the Library of the House.

Mr. Anthony D. Wright

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry when he will announce his decision on Great Yarmouth Power Ltd.'s application to increase the size of the South Denes gas-fired power station. [157221]

Mr. Byers

I have today granted consent to increase the size of the South Denes 350 MW combined cycle gas turbine power station to 400 MW. The extension is a result of new technology which is more efficient than that originally proposed and will result in a reduction of emissions while delivering the same power.

Copies of the press notice and decision letter are being placed in the Library of the House.