§ Malcolm BruceTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry for what reasons solar energy schemes are precluded from the Major Photovoltaics Demonstration Programme's allocation of grants to support the take up of solar power; and what plans there are for their future inclusion. [57502]
§ Mr. Wilson[holding answer 20 May 2002]: The £20 million first phase of the Major Photovoltaics Demonstration Programme is designed specifically to support the installation of solar electricity systems. Our rationale for supporting photovoltaics is that it is a technology at a relatively early stage of development, but with significant potential for further cost reduction and for meeting our electricity needs in the future. There are no plans to include support for other forms of solar energy under this programme.
Consideration is being given to whether support for solar water heating systems, in addition to other small-scale renewables, could be included in the £10 million Community and Household Scheme, which is currently being designed.
400W
§ Malcolm BruceTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what initiatives her Department has instigated to encourage the use of solar energy schemes in(a) domestic properties and (b) commercial properties since 1997. [57504]
§ Mr. Wilson[holding answer 20 May 2002]: In addition to the £20 million first phase of the Major Photovoltaics Demonstration Programme mentioned in the hon. Member's question PQ No. 57502, the Department is supporting the installation of solar electricity systems in:
- (a) the £5.4 million Domestic Field Trial will support the installation of PV systems in at least 500 homes over the next two years;
- (b) the £4 million Large Scale Field Trial for Public Buildings will support the installation of integrated systems in 18 buildings over the next two years.