This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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Capping of transmission charges
23/11/2005
Deputy Enterprise Minister Allan Wilson today welcomed the UK Energy Minister's announcement last week to extend the capping of transmission charges for renewable generators on the Scottish islands using its powers under section 185 of the Energy Act 2004.
These powers were set to last until 2014 however by amending a clause to The Climate Change and Sustainable Energy Bill this could be extended to 2024.
Mr Wilson said:
"It is vital that the capping powers run for a sufficiently long period of time to allow for many of the planned renewables projects to be realised.
"The increase to 2024 signals a long term commitment to the North of Scotland and will allow developers to invest in the region with confidence.
"I am delighted that the DTI were able to respond to our and others' views that this adjustment would be necessary to bring both environmental and economic benefits to island communities."
A consultation on capping transmission charges for renewable generators in the Scottish islands and Northern Scotland was launched in July. Its findings will be reported early in the New Year before a final consultation process on the licence modifications needed to implement the scheme.