HC Deb 14 September 2004 vol 424 cc1535-6W
Sue Doughty

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry how many householders have taken advantage of the Clear Skies renewable energy grants scheme since the scheme started operating; and how much has been awarded in grants. [188171]

Mr. Mike O'Brien

Since the start of Clear Skies 4,204 household applications have been made with a total value of £2,489,050. Of these 3,939 have been accepted and 2,347 have been paid, with a total value of £1,297,050.

Sue Doughty

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if she will make a statement on future plans for the Clear Skies renewable energy grants scheme. [188172]

Mr. Mike O'Brien

The Department is currently considering how best to allocate the recent Spending Review Settlement for sustainable energy. While the settlement was a good one in the context of a tight spending review, it unfortunately will not allow us to do everything.

We are currently considering the case made by the industry to make a further extension to Clear Skies in the context of the overall funding made available for renewables and low carbon generation in SR2004.

An announcement about continued funding will be made shortly.