HC Deb 27 January 1992 vol 202 cc424-5W
17. Mr. Thurham

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy what discussions he has had concerning non-fossil fuel generation in the north-west; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Moynihan

I discussed the non-fossil fuel obligation and renewables-based generation of electricity with the chairman of the North Western electricity board in July 1991.

In 1989, a report was published on a study of the prospects for renewable energy in the north-west. This study was jointly funded by NORWEB and my Department, and carried-out by staff from the company and from the energy technology support unit.

A further joint study is now in progress, on implementation and the refining of cost estimates.