asked the Minister for Energy the present position in relation to the number of small hydro-power units on stream, whose surplus electricity is being sold to the national power grid; and if he plans to encourage this trend by the introduction of economic incentives.
Written Answers. - Hydro-Electric Power Units.
653.
At present there are 21 small privately owned hydro-electric power units connected to the national grid whose surplus capacity is bought by the ESB. During the year ended March 1984, a total of 6.5 million units generated by private hydro schemes was purchased by the ESB. No direct financial incentives are, at present, available from my Department for the development of hydro-power projects. In 1981, however, a competition was held for the design and development of small hydro schemes. This competition resulted in thirteen projects being grant-aided to the value of £98,800. The performance of four of these is being monitored. This programme will be completed in 1986 and in the light of the results obtained, a decision will be taken concerning our future plans in this area.