§ Mr. MaudeTo ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what study Her Majesty's Treasury has made of the reductions in carbon dioxide emissions already achieved by firms which will be affected by the climate change levy; and if those firms with significant recent reductions will be granted lower reduction targets. [101828]
§ Mr. MeacherI have been asked to reply.
Extensive analyses of energy use and carbon dioxide emissions within industry have been carried out on behalf of the Government by the Energy Technology Support Unit (ETSU). These studies estimate the potential for future energy efficiency improvements by industry sectors. The Building Research Establishment has undertaken similar research for building sectors.
Targets for energy intensive firms which wish to enter into agreements with the Government are being negotiated on the basis of the potential for further cost-effective energy efficiency improvements. Those firms which are already relatively efficient will be expected to make fewer energy savings than those firms which still have substantial scope for further energy efficiency improvements.