Vol. 454 No. 7
38 Kathleen Lynch asked the Minister for Transport, Energy and Communications the plans, if any, he has for the future development of the alternative energy sector in Ireland after the alternative energy requirement scheme expires; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11441/95]
The alternative energy requirement scheme was the first major step in the development of alternative energy sources in Ireland. I believe many lessons can be learnt from this competition and therefore I have initiated a full review of our strategy in relation to alternative energy development. As promised this process includes consultation with all interested parties and the advertisement in the national dailies in April last inviting submission of views resulted in over forty responses. The review will form the basis for decisions on the setting of further targets in respect of electricity generation from renewable sources and any incentives which may be appropriate in that regard. I expect to make an announcement on this matter by the end of this year.
While biomass projects did not succeed in the recent alternative energy requirement scheme, I was encouraged by the potential of this technology to make a meaningful contribution to energy supply. It is my intention to bring forward a special scheme for biomass this year and I plan to make a further announcement on the matter in the coming weeks.
