§ Mr. MossTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what plans she has to encourage non-fossil fuel energy production in Northern Ireland. [72915]
§ Mr. IngramNorthern Ireland is participating in the current national policy review of new and renewable technologies, which includes an examination of what would be necessary and practicable to achieve 10 per cent. of the UK's electricity needs from renewables by the year 2010 and what contribution renewables could make to reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The Department of Trade and Industry plans to issue a consultation paper on the review shortly. Northern Ireland Orders have already been made for 32mw of contracted renewable capacity and consideration will be given to a further Non-Fossil Fuel Obligation competition in Northern Ireland on completion of the review. In addition, the EU supported Energy Demonstration Scheme and INTERREG Programme, continue to offer financial assistance to the developers of new and renewable energy projects.