§ Mr. Leeasked the Secretary of State for Energy what percentage of energy used for all domestic and industrial purposes is currently derived from geothermal and hot rock sources; what steps are being taken to increase such energy utilisation; what is the percentage that is envisaged as being applicable in 10 years' time; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. BennNo geo-thermal energy is used in the United Kingdom at present and no significant use can be expected in 10 years' time. My Department's Energy Technology Support Unit at Harwell has carried out a preliminary study of geothermal possibilities for the longer term and we are now considering this. The EEC has recently initiated a research and development programme for geo-thermal energy.