Hydro-Electric Power Mr. Speller To ask the Secretary of State for Energy what range of prices are being offered to private hydro-electricity generators in Wales, the north of England and the south of England. Mr. Baldry This is a commercial matter for the electricity industry. Mr. Speller To ask the Secretary of State for Energy what capacity of hydro-electric power is installed at present in Wales, the north of England and the south of England; and what are his plans to encourage further generation by this means. Mr. Baldry The total declared net capacity of hydro-electric schemes connected to the grid in England and Wales is 110 MW as at 31 March 1990. This figure excludes pumped storage schemes. Very small schemes may account for a further capacity of about 10 MW. Further hydro-electric generation in England and Wales is being encouraged by the following means: 1. The Water Act 1989 abolishes water abstraction charges for small schemes of under 5 MW—effective 1 April 1990.2. From 1990, independent commercial water power electricity generators will be rated on the same "formula" basis as the successors of the Central Electricity Generating Board.3. My Department has made provision for assistance with the funding of feasibility studies for small hydro-electric schemes, as part of a continuing programme of research, development and demonstration.4. A total of 26 hydro-electric schemes were included in the first tranche of renewable energy projects under the non-fossil fuel obligation—NFFO. These were given approval by the Director General of Electricity Supply on 3 October.5. It is planned to make available over the next few years further tranches of capacity for renewables-sourced electricity generation under the NFFO. At least another 600 MW will be made available. The next order under the NFFO will be made next year.