§ Mr. Wigleyasked the Secretary of State for Energy what investigations have been carried out by the electricity authorities into the potential in Wales for (a) hydro-electric plants and (b) pumped storage schemes; and if he will give details of conclusions reached in these studies.
§ Mr. Norman LamontI am informed by the CEGB that a survey carried out in the early 1950s of the hydro-electric potential in North Wales showed that up to six schemes were technically feasible, of which the Rheidol scheme was subsequently built. The others were at that time found not to be economically attractive. These studies are currently being reviewed.
Two potential sites for pumped storage schemes have been identified in North Wales besides the existing station at Ffestiniog and the one under construction at Dinorwic. These are at Bowydd near Dolwyddelan, and in the Croesor Valley. Studies have not shown any prospectively viable sites elsewhere in Wales. No need is seen at present for additional pumped storage capacity.