HC Deb 29 January 1990 vol 166 cc81-2W
31. Dr. Michael Clark

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy what proportion of his Department's research budget was spent on alternative energy sources in the last year for which figures are available.

Mr. Peter Morrison

In 1988–89 8.9 per cent. of my Department's research and development budget was spent on renewable energy sources.

54. Mr. Matthew Taylor

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy what progress has been made with the alternative energy projects currently funded or planned by his Department in Cornwall.

Mr. Peter Morrison

There are three major renewable energy research and development projects in Cornwall.

My Department contributed to the cost of the Cornwall energy project conducted by the Cornwall county council. Proposals for specific pieces of work arising from the first study are expected.

The geothermal hot dry rocks project operated by the Camborne School of Mines is progressing to schedule. A review of progress of the programme and future possibilities with the school is under way.

The Central Electricity Generating Board is progressing plans for an 8MW wind farm at Cold Northcott. My Department expects to contribute up to one third of the cost.