HC Deb 26 June 1968 vol 767 cc83-4W
52. Mr. Eadie

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what was the cost per unit of electricity sent out in 1967–68 from South of Scotland Electricity Board power stations using coal, oil and nuclear power, respectively, giving the figures in each case to include depreciation and interest on capital invested in power stations under construction.

Mr. Ross

I am advised by the Board that the costs per unit were for coal-fired stations 1.177d., for oil-fired stations 1.122d., for nuclear stations 1.011d., and for gas turbine stations 2.715d. These figures, unlike those given on page 20 of the Board's Annual Report for 1967–68, include depreciation and also interest on capital invested in power stations at present under construction, but make no allowance for subsidy paid towards the cost of substituting coal for oil.

53. Mr. Eadie

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what is now the expected total capital cost of the Hunter-ston B nuclear power station, including the initial fuel charge; and how the cost per kilowatt will compare with the existing Kincardine coal-fired station, and the station, also coal-fired, now being built at Longannet.

Mr. Ross

The estimated capital cost of Hunterston "B" is £87.5 million, or £70 per kilowatt sent out, and the initial fuel charge is estimated to cost a further £15.7 million, or £12.6 per kilowatt. Kincardine generating station cost £50 per kilowatt and Longannet is expected to cost £45 per kilowatt.