Austin Deasy
Question:52 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Energy if he will outline the incentives which are available for individuals or groups who wish to generate electricity from natural resources, such as wind, sun, wave or water power.
Written Answers. - Natural Resources Electricity Generation.
There are no grants available from my Department for the generation of electricity from natural resources. However, under certain circumstances funds are available for research, development and demonstration in a number of areas including renewable energies under the European Community's "JOULE" and "THERMIE" programmes. As these are Community programmes, the level of financial support secured by Irish projects depends on the total funds available and on the quality of the projects put forward.
Last year the price which the ESB pays for electricity supplied to the grid from non-fuel renewable energy sources was increased with effect from 1 June 1991. While the main beneficiaries of this increase will be private hydro electricity producers, it should also be seen as an incentive for those individuals or groups contemplating new development projects in other areas of renewable energies.