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Energy Bill

I may have confused the noble Lord when I referred to the 18 per cent figure. The same applies if there are fluctuating inputs into the grid at a local level or indeed into the local distribution network—in many cases, the microgeneration has to go to the local distribution network. I have been told by those who run the grid that they can cope with small inputs, but that if they become bigger it will be more difficult for them to cope. The noble Lord has sought to put protective words into his amendment. I quoted from proposed Section 3B(1)(a). He has also put, into proposed Section 3B(1)(c), "““insofar as the security of the national electricity system permits””," and so on. He has acknowledged that the problem exists, but it is quite difficult to understand how this can be done other than on a micro scale. If we are to have more and more wind power, we will have to have standby generating power to cover the gap when the wind does not blow. Everyone recognises that. However, that does not happen with microgeneration. If it is very micro, I have no doubt that the distribution system can cope, but does it make sense to guarantee access? I question that. I am totally in favour of encouraging microgeneration. The noble Lord has laid great stress on costs, and knowing the costs in advance is an important element. One is very sympathetic to that, but I hesitate to support the amendment without knowing a great deal more about how it would work.