§ 25. Mr. Patrick Thompson asked the Secretary of State for Energy what grants and assistance are available for the development of wind energy.
§ Mr. David HuntMy Department is supporting a comprehensive research and development programme aimed at exploiting the United Kingdom wind resource for electricity generation. The Department of Trade and Industry, through its support for innovation scheme, makes funds available to manufacturers for innovative research and development in this and other sectors. The European Commission offers grants both for research and development and for demonstration projects in wind energy.
7. Mr. Neale asked the Secretary of State for Energy whether he has any plans further to assist development of wind energy for isolated communities.
§ Mr. David HuntWind energy is a most promising source for generating electricity in particular for isolated communities in the United Kingdom and overseas. My Department's renewables programme for this year includes £6.5 million for wind energy research and development.