§ 14. Mr. DykesTo ask the Secretary of State for Energy what initiatives he is taking to assist local authorities in the development of renewable energy sources.
§ Mr. MoynihanThe Department of Energy is supporting a series of pilot studies to assist local authorities to identify the renewable energy potential in their area and to explore the associated planning and environmental issues. The first two studies are taking place in Cumbria and Devon.
§ 20. Mr. FlynnTo ask the Secretary of State for Energy what new plans he has to increase electricity production from renewable sources.
§ Mr. MoynihanThe non-fossil fuel obligation will continue to bring forward additional renewables-sourced generating capacity. Meanwhile, I am reviewing my Department's renewable energy strategy.
§ Mr. SteenTo ask the Secretary of State for Energy what arrangements his Department has to assess the effect of new rules and regulations proposed by his Department which would affect small firms engaged in renewable energy projects; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. MoynihanProposed new regulations are subject to a compliance cost assessment, which would include consideration of the effect on business. The departmental deregulation unit regularly surveys the scope for reducing burdens on business. However, at present I have no proposals to introduce new rules or regulations which would affect small firms engaged in renewable energy projects.