Technologies for the conversion of biomass to fuel are well established and are in use in some countries. I understand that Teagasc have investigated the potential for energy production from biomass crops in replacing fossil fuels, which in turn would reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
I am aware of the potential advantages of the development of an Irish biofuel industry. Apart from the environmental benefit, there is a large market to be exploited and the economic and strategic value of a secure indigenous fuel supply would be substantial. On the other hand it would require extensive areas of land to be diverted from the traditional enterprises; although current fossil fuel prices are variable they are still low, resulting in biofuels being currently uncompetitive in price.