Clive Efford
Main Page: Clive Efford (Labour - Eltham and Chislehurst)(13 years, 9 months ago)
Commons ChamberRead Full debate Read Hansard Text
Gregory Barker
I think the hon. Gentleman is unduly concerned. The 50 kW level simply refers to the current legislative definition of microgeneration. It is not our intention to place draconian limits on those above 50 kW, particularly in relation to the school and hospital schemes that he mentions. However, there is a real problem with large solar fields, and that is our primary focus. Going for 50 kW allows us to settle the matter discreetly, quickly and before the summer recess.
Clive Efford (Eltham) (Lab)
Because of the confusion that the 50 kW limit has caused, should not the review be completed swiftly so that community organisations know where they stand?
Gregory Barker
The hon. Gentleman is absolutely right, and that is why we are moving very quickly indeed and expect to publish the consultation in March. There is no reason for anyone involved in the community schemes that he advocates to be unduly concerned. We are very lucky that capital costs, installation costs and financing costs have all fallen quickly, and we must ensure that the taxpayer gets good value for money.