Oral Answers to Questions

Mike Weir Excerpts

Thursday 25th June 2015 Commons Chamber

[Owen Thompson (Midlothian) (SNP)]

8. What recent discussions she has had with representatives of the renewable energy industry on the future of that industry.

[Mike Weir (Angus) (SNP)]

17. What recent discussions she has had with representatives of the renewable energy industry on the future of that industry.

[The Minister of State, Department of Energy and Climate Change (Andrea Leadsom)]

rose—

--- Later in debate ---

[Andrea Leadsom]

As we have explained, the early closure of the RO for onshore wind will save consumers money. The subsidies in their bills, which would have gone towards an excess of deployment above our target would have cost consumers hundreds of millions of pounds more.

[Mike Weir]

Following the announcement of the closure of ROs for onshore wind, many renewables developers are worried about what else might be in the pipeline. Will the Minister give an absolute assurance that there are no plans to cut the funds available through contracts for difference for offshore wind developments?

[Andrea Leadsom]

As the hon. Gentleman will know, the policy on CfDs is being considered right now. It is certainly our intention to continue to promote a successful and thriving renewables industry and we will make announcements in due course.