Nicholas Soames: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change what plans he has for the renewal of energy infrastructure; and if he will make a statement. [80569]

Charles Hendry MP; Minister of State: Over the next decade, our latest estimate is that we will lose around a fifth (around 20 GW) of our existing generation capacity as old or more polluting plant close. Up to £110 billion investment in electricity generation and transmission is likely to be required by 2020, more than double the current rate of investment.

The Government set out their policy for the development of nationally significant energy infrastructure in the National Policy Statements for Energy, which were designated by the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change, the right hon. Member for Eastleigh (Chris Huhne), on 19 July 2011. The Electricity Market Reform White Paper “Planning our electric future” described the package of reforms designed to deliver the Government's commitment to transform the UK's electricity market to ensure that our future electricity supply is secure, low-carbon and affordable. Copies are available in the House Library.