asked the Minister for Energy if he will make grants available to individuals or groups who instal their own sources of electricity, such as wind chargers or minor hydro electric schemes.
Written Answers. - Electric Scheme Grants.
356.
There are no grants available at present for the erection of privately operated wind generators or for the installation of privately owned hydro schemes. To date we have insufficient data and operating experience to assess the potential of these as sources of energy. However, I have recently announced a windpower demonstration programme which will test the use of windpower in a variety of applications. With regard to minor hydro schemes, an alternative energy committee comprising of technical and administrative officials of my Department will be examining this energy source and will prepare new guidelines for the benefit of those who are interested in installing a hydro electric scheme.
If the examination of our wind and minor hydro resources indicates that the technology can be successfully used by private individuals then I will consider how best to encourage their use throughout the community.