§ Mr. BarronTo ask the Secretary of State for Energy what research has been commissioned, or is planned, on the role of nuclear power, energy conservation and renewable energy sources in reducing carbon dioxide emissions and the greenhouse effect; if he will list any such studies which have been published; if he will place copies in the Library; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Michael SpicerMy Department has been discussing with the energy technology support unit a study to assess the impact of energy efficiency on emission of126W CO2 and other pollutants. This will involve identification of the differing roles of nuclear power, renewables and conventional sources in emissions of CO2 and other pollutants. It is the intention that this work will begin before the end of the year. This work will build on a preliminary analysis of those technologies which could have importance in reducing CO2 emissions, published in 1986 in energy paper 54 (Energy Technologies for the UK 1986 Appraisal of Research, Development and Demonstration), a copy of which is in the Library.