§ Mr. Simon HughesTo ask the Secretary of State for Energy how many applications he has received to date submitting schemes for inclusion in the renewable tranche of the non-fossil fuel obligation; and what is the total generating capacity of these schemes.
§ Mr. BaldryIn fulfilment of the initial order setting a non-fossil fuel obligation in respect of renewable sources of electricity generating capacity, the 12 regional electricity companies have contracted for 75 projects with an installed capacity that will build up to some 170 MW. My right hon. Friend intends to bring forward the first additional renewables tranche next year.
§ Mr. Simon HughesTo ask the Secretary of State for Energy how many, and what percentage, of those applicants who have submitted schemes for inclusion in the renewable tranche of the non-fossil fuel obligation have written to express reservations about the operation of the non-fossil fuel obligation; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. BaldryIn consultation with OFFER and the 12 regional electricity companies, my Department is currently reviewing the procedures for making orders setting a non-fossil fuel obligation in respect of renewable sources of electricity generating capacity, in the light of experience gained in making the initial renewables order. In this context comments have been invited from a number of organisations. The conclusions of this review will be taken into account in making the arrangements for the first additional order, about which my right hon. Friend proposes to make an announcement by the end of this year.