Joe Costello
Question:71 Mr. Costello asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he will make a statement on the role and use of biomass in Ireland's future electricity and energy production. [15908/03]
Written Answers. - Alternative Energy Projects.
Support for all renewable energy technologies by my Department has taken place under the alternative energy requirement programme. A biomass category was included in several rounds of the AER programme. Contracts awarded were in relation to landfill gas projects. In AER VI, in order to explore alternative biomass technologies, new categories were added to support biomass anaerobic digestion and biomass fed combined heat and power plants. The closing date for receipt of tenders was 24 April last and the Department is currently assessing applications received.
I have stated on several occasions that I am committed to a public consultation process about future support mechanisms for renewable energy, based on a document to be launched by the Department as soon as AER VI is completed. All matters raised in the consultation will be carefully considered in due course including any submissions about increased support for biomass technologies.
In addition, progress of research projects on biomass heat and power generation projects or resource studies on biomass for energy in specific targeted areas can make application to Sustainable Energy Ireland under its published research and development programme for renewables.