asked the Minister for Energy if the ESB's brief is to balance its energy inputs with a view to achieving maximum cost efficiency; or if their policy restraints require the ESB to maintain its peat burning capacity even if this is shown not to be cost effective when compared with other fuels such as coal, oil and natural gas; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Balancing Energy Inputs.
40.
The ESB has sole responsibility on a day-to-day basis for balancing inputs into electricity generation, and for evaluating appropriate fuel use depending on a number of factors including comparative fuel costs and station efficiencies.
The policy in regard to ESB peat burning capacity is of long standing. In June 1984, the then Government decided to accept revised proposals put forward in the ESB's strategic plan which resulted in the greater part of peat-fired capacity being maintained in operation. The present Government's Programme for National Recovery indicates that we are committed to the maximum utilisation of our peat resources.