Vol. 485 No. 2
116 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Public Enterprise if her Department will stand by its estimate that 93 per cent of total energy supply in this country will come from imported energy in view of the exceptional growth in demand; and her views on whether this poses a potential risk to the security of supply which can only be offset by investing in renewables. [22950/97]
It is estimated that approx. 93 per cent of Ireland's primary energy requirements will be met from imported sources by 2010. This will be due to declining indigenous sources of peat and natural gas which will be offset to some extent by increased penetration of renewable sources. The development of nuclear energy, which would provide increased supply security, is not an option which the Government is prepared to consider.
I am aware that an increased reliance on imported sources of energy has implications for security of supply. However, in Ireland's case I do not consider that this is something to be unduly concerned about. Security of supply is a central plank of our energy policy and I will continue to ensure that we have a prudent and diverse mix of energy sources, including renewable energy, and appropriate emergency measures.
