§ 29. Ian LucasTo ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what assessment he made of the needs of manufacturers of renewable energy equipment when preparing his Budget. [53571]
§ Mr. BoatengThe Chancellor considers a wide range of representations when preparing his Budget. The Budget announced that solar water heating systems will be eligible for enhanced capital allowances, while most forms of renewable energy are exempt from the climate change levy. The Government are also providing direct support for renewable energy worth over £260 million between 2001 and 2004, and renewable energy is also supported through the renewables obligation, which requires all electricity suppliers to source a minimum percentage of their electricity from renewable sources.