Written question asked by Alan Simpson (Labour) on Friday, 4 March 2005, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 7 April 2005. It was answered by Mike O'Brien (Labour) on Thursday, 7 April 2005 on behalf of the Department of Trade and Industry.

Dept of Trade and Industry

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry, for what reasons the Government plans to phase out grant support for photo-voltaic energy systems; and what further plans the Government has to (a) promote and (b) support PV development.

Answer: Alan Simpson: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry for what reasons the Government plans to phase out grant support for photovoltaic energy systems; and what further plans the Government have to (a) promote and (b) support PV development. [220937] Mr. Mike O'Brien: The Government have no plans to phase out support for photovoltaics. The current capital grant programme, the major PV demonstration programme, is due to end in March 2006 and the Department will continue its support for PV through a "low carbon buildings" programme. The Renewable Innovation Review February 2004, recommended this more holistic approach to energy use in buildings incorporating both energy efficiency and renewable energy technologies. The low carbon buildings programme is currently under development and there will be formal consultation on this later this year. The programme is expected to begin operating in 2006-07.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 432 c1633W;432 c1628W; 220937
Session: 2004-05
Subjects: Grants Pollution control Renewable energy Technology Solar power Photovoltaics
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk