asked the Minister for Transport and Power if his Department will publish a leaflet advising consumers on the economics of various types of energy including solid fuel, gas, oil, off-peak electricity, full rate electricity and central heating; if he will indicate the present position regarding the different fuels; and if there are any comparisons as between this country and England and Northern Ireland regarding them.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Energy Economics.
5.
The relative efficiency of various fuels and the assessment of comparable costs is a highly complex area and this is reflected in differences of opinions among experts who have conducted studies in this area. Difficulties arise even in reaching agreement on a definition of energy efficiency, which can depend on a number of variable factors including the particular context in which the energy is used and the system involved. Energy efficiency may refer to the energy input per unit output, but while this definition may be suitable for comparing equipment performing a similar function and using the same type of fuel, it may not be appropriate when comparing equipment using different fuels. Even if one were to take technical efficiency of fuel utilisation as a starting point, there are, I understand, a wide choice of definitions and there are problems in agreeing on the energy content of a fuel.
As regards comparisons between Ireland and elsewhere, it is difficult to make useful comparisons because of the differing patterns of energy use in different countries. I would say, however, in respect of the industrial sector that, since a large proportion of our factories use modern equipment, they are likely to be relatively efficient in the use of energy and should compare favourably with factories elsewhere.
My Department have been concerned with the promotion of energy conservation through the rational use of energy, that is, by the more efficient use of equipment and also by the elimination of waste. The conservation campaign involves the provision of technical assistance and advisory services to firms, grants for re-equipment to achieve economies in energy use, grants for research and development projects in the same area and the issue of guidance material for domestic, commercial and industrial users. A new phase of the campaign has recently been initiated urging domestic users to save through attic insulation, draught proofing and lagging of hot water cylinders.
I realise this matter may be the responsibility of another Minister. Certain claims are made by the producers of gas, coal, solid fuels and oil which do not necessarily live up to what the advertisements suggest. Is it the responsibility of the Minister to investigate this matter or is it a question for another Minister?
I think that would be a matter for the Minister for Industry and Commerce under the consumer protection legislation. As the Deputy has said, the firms that sell a particular form of energy or fuel claim it is the best but independent experts cannot agree among themselves on which is the best and the most efficient form. It is a very complex and difficult area.
It gives the consumer considerable difficulty.
I admit that.