asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce the research, if any, that has been carried out to show the best way to use residual heat from conventional power stations and the proposed nuclear power stations.
Written Answers. - Use of Residual Heat.
279.
A technical and economic feasibility study of the use of conventional power stations for the combined production of electricity and water for heating purposes was undertaken by the ESB in 1974. The conclusion of the study was that while co-generation of power and heat was technically feasible for the centre city area of Dublin it would not be an economic proposition in view of present interest rates and the prevailing price of oil.
The ESB in conjunction with An Foras Talúntais are investigating the technical and economic feasibility of modifying the Lanesborough power station to provide heating for a large glasshouse complex. This study is expected to be completed shortly.
No direct research has been carried out to date in Ireland on the utilisation of residual heat from nuclear power stations, but indications are that the present generation of nuclear reactors are not suitable for the co-generation of power and heat.