asked the Minister for Energy if his Department has any plans to develop wave power as a source of energy at this time.
Written Answers. - Wave Power.
10.
The Government's policy in regard to wave power is to assess its potential in this country and if appropriate to encourage its further development.
The NBST in 1982 and the EC in 1985 published survey reports which indicated that there are considerable potential wave power resources along the west coast of Ireland. What has to be determined is whether any of it can be harnessed to generate electricity on an economic basis. We are keeping in touch with international research in this area. In addition, a survey funded by my Department is currently being carried out along the west coast to see if suitable sites can be identified to enable further research and development to be carried out in Irish conditions. I expect to have the report of this survey towards the end of the year or early next year. When this report has been considered I will decide whether it would be appropriate to take further measures.