§ Mr. Charles KennedyTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what plans she has to upgrade the capacity of the National Grid to enable further development of renewable energy in the Scottish Highlands; and if he will make a statement. [41587]
§ Ms HewittI published on 13 February a preliminary feasibility study, undertaken for my Department by PB Power Ltd., of the concept of a subsea electricity interconnector along the western seaboard of the United Kingdom. This initial study sustains the validity of the concept while being realistic about the costs and difficulties.
In partnership with the Scottish companies, the National Grid Company and the regulator, the Government intend to move forward to a more detailed and comprehensive study on options for the development of the transmission system within Scotland and from Scotland to the rest of the United Kingdom. I expect conclusions and firm recommendations 674W on the way forward to be available within six months. Whatever we do will extend to the north and west of Scotland, including the islands.