Vol. 455 No. 8
385 Mr. Leonard asked the Minister for Transport, Energy and Communications the proposals, if any, contained in the future alternative energy requirement scheme to take into account local environmental benefits from such schemes. [12845/95]
386 Mr. Leonard asked the Minister for Transport, Energy and Communications when funding will be made available under the alternative energy requirement scheme for generating electricity from biomass. [12846/95]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 385 and 386 together. The Deputy may be aware that on 13 July 1995, Deputy Emmet Stagg, Minister of State at the Department of Transport, Energy and Communications, announced plans for a competitive scheme to secure one electricity generating plant of up to 30 megawatts using biomass as a fuel. It is proposed, subject to EU approval, to provide grant assistance of up to £7.5 million to the project under the Economic Infrastructure Operational Programme. The drawdown of the grant will follow on normal European Union Structural Funds rules.
The scheme will be designed to assist Irish energy policy by supporting the cheapest supply of electricity commensurate with environmental objectives. The detailed arrangements for the scheme, including arrangements for allocation of the grant and the criteria for evaluation of project applications, are being finalised by the Power Procurer in consultation with my Department. The scheme is expected to be launched in the coming weeks.
