§ Mr. Frank CookTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what grants or incentives are currently available to farmers who wish to utilise wind energy, hydro-power and biomass energy; and if he has any future proposals for grants or incentives.
§ Mr. Donald ThompsonUnder the agriculture improvement scheme, grants are available at rates of 30 per cent. in the less-favoured areas and 15 per cent. elsewhere for wind and water powered pumps and for the utilisation of biomass energy.
Grants are also available at the same rates for solar and other forms of permanent and durable energy saving agricultural investments and for thermal insulation, vapour sealing or gas sealing for the control of temperature or atmosphere in buildings designed for agricultural use.
The rates of grant for thermal insulation of heated glasshouses is up to 50 per cent.
I am keeping these grants under review.