§ Mr. Rostasked the Secretary of State for Energy how much North Sea gas was burned in CEGB power stations last year; what is the expected burn this year; in how many power stations gas is now being burned; and what is the estimated cost of conversion to dual-firing.
§ Mr. Benn,pursuant to his reply [Official Report, 23rd February 1976; Vol. 906, c. 22], gave the following information:
Natural gas is burned in two CEGB power stations: West Thurrock and Hams 186W Hall "C". 3.6 m.t.c.e. of natural gas were burned at these stations in 1974–75. The expected burn for the financial year 1975–76 is in the region of 3.5 to 4 m.t.c.e. Both power stations are already equipped to burn coal. I am now considering the possibility of a greater coal burn at these stations.