§ Mr. StunellTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what plans he has to promote exports of renewable energy technologies by United Kingdom companies in the United Kingdom. [67690]
§ Mr. BattleMy Department assists British renewable energy companies to win export orders worldwide, and since 1995 has had a focused programme of activities including, trade missions, overseas seminars and exhibitions, inward visits, market research and information dissemination. This programme is supported by two dedicated Trade Promoters, who have been concentrating their efforts on target markets such as China, India and Spain. For example, last autumn the Minister for Science opened a renewable energy seminar, and associated trade mission, in Peking. We also take advantage of other opportunities in overseas markets, which in the past year have included, Poland, United States and the Philippines.
British renewable energy exports are estimated to have risen from an historic level of £10-£15 million p.a. in the early 90's to around £80-£100 million p.a. in the last two years.
What further support the Government might give to help UK renewable energy companies to exploit overseas markets is being considered as part of the policy review on renewable energy. I plan to publish a Consultation Paper on the Review shortly, which will set out the options and pose a number of questions to industry and interested parties.