§ Mr. BeggsTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what support is being given to encourage the harnessing of the potential for generation of hydro-electricity in the Highlands and Islands of Scotland; and how much support is given to wind generation. [80819]
§ Mr. WilsonThe main means through which hydro in the Highlands and Islands and elsewhere is encouraged is through the Renewables Obligation which we introduced on 1 April this year. New hydro plant and existing hydro plant of up to 20 MW (built before 1990 and refurbished since end December 1989) are eligible for the Obligation.
Wind energy generation, at both onshore and offshore sites in the Highlands and Islands and elsewhere, is also eligible for the Renewables Obligation. In addition, the Government have made provision of £74 million over three years for capital grants for offshore wind energy projects.