Energy and Climate Change written question – answered at on 30 March 2011.
To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change what assessment he has made of the merits of greater utilisation of (a) hydropower and (b) water wheel turbines on rivers.
There have been several recent assessments of the UK's remaining hydropower potential, including old water wheel sites. These have estimated the remaining viable resource at between 850 MW and 1,550 MW, which is equivalent to 1% to 2% of current UK generating capacity. This represents a modest but useful contribution to our renewable energy and emission reduction targets. In addition, these small hydro schemes would ensure the active involvement of hundreds of businesses, communities and individuals in the transition to the low carbon economy.
Yes2 people think so
No0 people think not
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