HC Deb 02 November 1987 vol 121 cc524-5W
17. Mr. Heathcoat-Amory

asked the Secretary of State for Energy if he will estimate the cost of electricity provided by the latest nuclear power stations compared with that produced by the most modern coal-fired plant.

Mr. Michael Spicer

The latest analysis of comparative generating costs made by the CEGB showed that the average lifetime costs per Kwh, in April 1987 prices, for the most recently commissioned plant at Hinkley Point was 2.82 per Kwh and 3.03 per Kwh for the first stage of the coal fired station at Drax.

20. Mr. Evennett

asked the Secretary of State for Energy what funds his Department is currently providing for research into electricity generation using renewable energy sources.

Mr. Michael Spicer

The current renewables programme includes 94 projects worth over £45 million covering the electricity generating renewable technologies. So far this year 38 projects worth nearly £5 million have been initiated.