East Surrey MP, Peter Ainsworth, has expressed his satisfaction following today’s successful Second Reading of the Green Energy (Definition and Promotion) Bill.

Mr Ainsworth chose to sponsor the Green Energy Bill – which has cross-party support – after being successful in the ballot for Private Members Bills last year. Today saw a lively debate with contributions from all sides of the House, and the Bill being passed without opposition. The Bill will now go on to Committee Stage.

Commenting after the debate, Mr Ainsworth said:

“I was truly heartened by the fact that the main thrust of the Bill had genuine cross-party support and the support of the Government. It goes to show just how important green issues have become, and how seriously they are being taken.

“I very much look forward to taking the Bill forward to Committee stage where further constructive debate can take place, and where we can move a step closer decentralising our energy consumption; empowering users and helping the most needy in our communities cope with ever rising fuel costs.”

Dave Sowden, Chief Executive of the Micropower Council said:

“We are delighted that Parliament once again is pushing the microgeneration agenda, and thank the Minister, Mike O’Brien, for lending government support to the Bill.

“In particular we welcome the government’s agreement to take a renewed strategic look at policy on microgeneration, and to the prospect of removing the last serious piece of red tape affecting micro-wind and air source heat pumps.”