Bernard J. Durkan
Question:103 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Finance when he expects applications for biofuel pilot projects to be approved; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34061/04]
View answerDáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 16 December 2004
103 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Finance when he expects applications for biofuel pilot projects to be approved; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34061/04]
View answerThe Deputy may be aware that section 98(a) of the Finance Act 1999, as inserted by section 50 of the Finance Act 2004, provides for the introduction of a scheme for excise tax relief for biofuels. The purpose of the scheme is to allow qualified and conditional relief from excise of biofuel used in approved pilot projects for either the production of biofuel or the testing of the technical viability of biofuel for use as a motor fuel.
The details of the scheme, which includes pure plant oil, biodiesel and bioethanol, are being finalised in conjunction with the Department of Communications, Marine and Natural Resources. The European Commission has confirmed that the scheme would represent a State aid and, consequently, its approval is required. The EU energy tax directive of 2003 envisages such tax relief and the Commission has approved schemes for excise relief of biofuel in other EU member states. My Department and the Department of Communications, Marine and Natural Resources have had a number of meetings with European Commission officials in respect of this and it is expected that a formal application for Commission approval will be made shortly. Assuming approval is granted, the necessary commencement order will then be signed. Following this, the project selection and approval process will be set in train.