asked the Minister for Transport and Power if he is considering the provision of district heating such as is supplied by the Frankfurt suburb of Niederrad, for the larger centres of population in Ireland; and, if not, why.
62.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - District Heating System.
61.
asked the Minister for Transport and Power if the waste heat of Irish electricity works could supply most households within their regions with cheap central heating; and if he will take steps to ensure that this waste heat will be properly contained and utilised in the future.
With the permission of the Ceann Comhairle, I propose to take Questions Nos. 61 and 62 together.
As the Deputy is probably aware, the Electricity Supply Board has recently undertaken a preliminary study on the possibilities of adopting a combined district heating system utilising rejected heat. The preliminary study does not reach definite conclusions about the feasibility or economics of introducing such a system in Ireland and much more detailed examination needs to be carried out not only by the board but by building and other interests concerned to establish the extent to which such a system can be adopted.
Among the factors which affect the situation are the design and location of existing or future generating stations, the present heating systems in areas which might be considered, the cost and feasibility of converting them and the freedom of choice of heating systems by the owners of the buildings which might be affected.
While a decision in relation to a new station in a new town could well be simple, the introduction of such a system in an already developed area poses formidable problems.