Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 29 May 2001

Vol. 537 No. 2

Written Answers. - Energy Costs.

David Stanton

Question:

96 Mr. Stanton asked the Taoiseach the energy costs incurred by his Department each year for the past three years in each of the energy sectors respectively; the use made of renewable energy; his further plans regarding same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15848/01]

The Taoiseach

The energy costs incurred by my Department each year for the past three years in each of the energy sectors are set out in the following table.

Table 1 – Energy Costs

Energy Type	1998	1999	2000
	£	£	£
Electricity	43,665	43,035	39,831
Oil/Gas	12,054	10,643	17,035

My Department actively participates in the Department of the Environment and Local Government's green housekeeping programme. This involves the purchase of energy efficient equipment such as photocopiers and computer equipment as well as turning off lighting and office equipment when they are not required.

There are no immediate plans for the use of renewable energy in my Department.