HC Deb 07 September 2004 vol 424 cc1012-3W
Nick Harvey

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry how many planning applications for the construction of biomass power stations are being considered; and how many have been granted permission. [185847]

Mr. Timms

Proposals to construct and operate generating stations with a capacity greater than 50 megawatts (MW) in England and Wales require the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry's consent under section 36 of the Electricity Act 1989. No application has been made to the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry for consent to construct a biomass power station.

Generating stations below 50 MW fall to be determined by the local planning authority under the normal planning regime.