Skip to main content

Written question asked by Lisa Smart (Liberal Democrat) on Friday, 30 May 2025, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 3 June 2025. It was answered by Emma Hardy (Labour) on Monday, 9 June 2025 on behalf of the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.


Hydroelectric Power: Community Energy

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, whether he plans to simplify regulatory requirements for community hydroelectric schemes; and if he will make an assessment of the potential impact of doing so on his (a) net zero and (b) other green energy targets.

Answer

The Government makes full use of the comprehensive and wide ranging environmental regulatory framework in England. Defra and the Environment Agency have contributed to HMT’s Regulatory Action Plan and other recent reviews into regulatory effectiveness, including the review led by Dan Corry.

We remain committed to upholding high environmental standards to protect our natural environment and local communities when supporting new infrastructure and development, including community hydroelectric schemes.


Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
55442
Session
2024-26
Subjects
Regulation Hydroelectric power Community energy
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk