§ Mr. DrewTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what proposals he is examining to extend the length of the licence period for hydro schemes. [152176]
Mr. Robert AinsworthThe Environment Agency has recently announced that time limits for abstraction licences will generally be for 12 years, striking a fair balance between environmental protection and abstractors' needs for stability. There will be a presumption of renewal of licences, so that where sufficient water resources are available licences will be renewed.
Time limits longer than 12 years may be given in particular circumstances, such as for infrastructure investments, subject to detailed economic and environmental appraisal. The Agency works closely with abstractors to take into account their particular circumstances, and will implement the new arrangements in a way which minimises the disruption to business.
§ Mr. DrewTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what plans he has to change the powers of the Environment Agency so that it can actively promote hydropower schemes. [152174]
Mr. Robert AinsworthThe British Hydropower Association has made the same proposal. Officials from my Department are meeting representatives of the association on 8 March to discuss the proposition.
§ Mr. DrewTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what discussions he has had with the British Hydropower Association concerning the draft Water Bill. [152173]
Mr. Robert AinsworthAt the request of the British Hydropower Association, officials from my Department are due to meet represntatives of the association on 8 March to discuss among other issues the draft Water Bill.
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§ Mr. DrewTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what plans he has to end the requirement for low-head hydro schemes across existing weirs to have to apply for an abstraction licence. [152175]
Mr. Robert AinsworthLow-head hydro schemes, while they do not consume water, can affect river flows and other river users. We therefore have no plans to end the requirement for low-head hydro schemes across existing weirs to have an abstraction licence. Each case needs to be considered on its merits.