Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 17 October 2012
195. Deputy Michelle Mulherin asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he will review the efficacy of the biofuels obligation scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45142/12]
View answerThe Biofuel Obligation Scheme was introduced in July 2010 as the primary means to meet the target of at least 10% renewable energy in transport by 2020, which was mandated to all EU Member States by the Renewable Energy Directive. The obligation currently requires that the amount of biofuel brought to the market is not less than 4.166% of the relevant disposal of petroleum road transport fuels. The biofuel obligation has successfully delivered increased amounts of biofuel in Ireland resulting in 145 million litres of biofuel being placed on the Irish market in 2011.
This obligation will increase over time which will require suppliers of road transport fuels to make certain that even higher volumes sold are biofuel. I am currently examining the possibility of implementing the first increase to the Biofuel Obligation from 2013. I will be taking into account all relevant factors, including developments in the Irish market and in the UK and other EU markets as well as sustainability considerations. My Department estimates that by 2020, a market of approaching 500 million litres of biofuel will be required in order to meet our requirements under the Renewable Energy Directive.
