§ Llew SmithTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry whether her Department has sponsored research into the possible contribution of nuclear energy to the creation of hydrogen to power fuel cells. [77235]
§ Mr. WilsonThe Department is not currently sponsoring specific research into the possible contribution of nuclear energy to the creation of hydrogen to power fuel cells. We are, however, actively investing in sustainable hydrogen technologies through industrial research and development on fuel cells via the DTI Advanced Fuel Cells Programme. This is worth approximately £2 million per year. The Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) is investing in fundamental research into sustainable hydrogen technologies at approximately £3 million over four years (through the SUPERGEN initiative) and also in fuel cell technology through generic mechanisms (approximately £500,000 per year).
§ Llew SmithTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what evaluation she has made of options available to introduce hydrogen-based fuel for transport. [77236]
§ Mr. WilsonHydrogen can be generated via a number of routes and may be used in modified internal combustion engines or fuel cells to power vehicles. The854W forthcoming Energy White Paper will discuss the prospective use of hydrogen and fuel cell technology in transport, industrial and other stationary applications.