HC Deb 17 December 1962 vol 669 cc145-6W
Mr. Warbey

asked the Minister of Power by what percentage the cost of conventional electricity generating plant per kilowatt output capacity has fallen since 1955; and to what extent this fall has been offset by the increase in interest rates during the same period.

Mr. Wood

The estimated average cost a kilowatt of conventional plant which is being ordered now is about 30 per cent. less than the cost of stations ordered in about 1955. The increase in the interest rate from 4 per cent. to 6 per cent. has offset the reduction in annual capital charges by about two thirds.