Vol. 471 No. 5
165 Mr. M. McDowell asked the Minister for Transport, Energy and Communications if he has satisfied himself with the ESB's AER and Thermie contracts; if not, if he will direct the ESB to purchase the output generation of completed renewable energy projects forthwith at the appropriate renewable energy rates until the ESB contracts have been amended to his satisfaction; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21299/96]
I am satisfied with the ESB's contracts for the purchase of electricity from AER1 and Thermie funded projects. Under the first alternative energy requirement scheme, (AER1), I awarded 34 contracts for the production of electricity from alternative energy sources. All capacity must be installed by the end of 1997.
I am happy to report that projects are progressing well. The Power Purchase Agreement for a 15MW wind farm in Donegal, one of the largest contracts awarded, was recently signed. By the end of 1996, I expect AER1 contracts for a total electricity output of at least 30MW to be signed.
Earlier this year I launched Renewable Energy — A Strategy for the Future. My strategy guarantees electricity market access for all Thermie funded renewable energy projects. The ESB in conjunction with my Department has prepared a special Power Purchase Agreement for Thermie projects and has made this document available to developers on request. I expect the contracts for the first of these projects, a 3MW wind farm, to be signed by the end of 1996.
