Water Power

Energy and Climate Change written question – answered at on 30 March 2011.

Alert me about debates like this

Photo of Anna Soubry Anna Soubry Conservative, Broxtowe

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.

Photo of Gregory Barker Gregory Barker The Minister of State, Department of Energy and Climate Change

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.

Does this answer the above question?

Yes2 people think so

No0 people think not

Would you like to ask a question like this yourself? Use our Freedom of Information site.