Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 9 December 2004
151 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if adequate incentives are in place to encourage the production of adequate amounts of alternative energy generated electricity; if he has issued directives or proposes changes in this regard, keeping in mind the need to avoid cost increases brought about by delays; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32836/04]
View answerThere is already clear Government support for alternative energy. I am currently awaiting reports from the bioenergy strategy group, the combined heat and power policy group and the renewable energy development group. The groups' reports are due very shortly and will form the basis of my future policy decisions on the increased penetration of renewable energy technologies in the electricity market.
153 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he has satisfied himself that his Department has adequate legislative provisions to encourage the production of various forms of alternative energy electricity with a view to supplying the national grid; if he intends making changes with particular reference to the need for the elimination of delays which have cost implications for producers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32838/04]
View answerThe development of our alternative and renewable energy sources as a means of electricity production is now an important part of the Government's overall energy policy. Renewable, sustainable or alternative forms of energy are defined in the Electricity Regulation Act 1999. This legislation led to the market for electricity produced from these sources to be fully liberalised since February 2000, some five years in advance of full market liberalisation. As Minister with responsibility for energy matters, my remit is to create a positive framework whereby these resources can prosper and contribute significantly to our energy needs.
I am currently awaiting reports from the bioenergy strategy group, the combined heat and power policy group and the renewable energy development group. The groups' reports are due very shortly and will form the basis of my future policy decisions on the increased penetration of renewable energy technologies in the electricity market. I have no plans at this stage to propose any further legislation on this matter.
