Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 11 June 2013
81. Deputy Sean Fleming asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he has sought a report into the collapse, two months ago, of a wind turbine at Loughderryduff, County Donegal; his views on the ability of wind energy to deliver sustainable energy for Ireland in the future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27833/13]
View answer514. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if his attention has been drawn to an incident whereby a 245 foot wind turbine (details supplied) in County Donegal collapsed during high winds; if he intends to order a public investigation into this matter; if he intends to introduce legislation which makes provision for a minimum 1km set back distance for wind turbines from dwellings; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27018/13]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 81 and 514 together.
Ensuring sustainable supplies of power to all consumers is central to this Government’s energy policy. Harnessing the clean, sustainable, indigenous, renewable wind resource that Ireland is fortunate to have in abundance is crucial to reducing our dependence on expensive fossil fuels imports, reducing harmful emissions and delivering growth in the green economy.
In order to develop a more sustainable electricity supply, Ireland is committed to reaching a target of 40% of electricity demand being met from renewable sources by 2020. It is forecast that the bulk of this demand will be met by onshore wind.
The issue of planning approval for wind farms is in the first instance a matter for developers and the planning authority under the Planning Acts, which include requirements for public consultation. In addition, best practice Wind Energy Guidelines were published in 2006. Currently, the Department of Environment, Community and Local Government – in conjunction with my Department and other stakeholders – is undertaking a targeted review of certain aspects of these guidelines. The review will examine the manner in which the guidelines address key issues of community concern to ensure that wind energy does not have negative impacts on local communities.
With regard to the incident referred to by the Deputies, I understand that the Health and Safety Authority was notified of its occurrence and that the Authority has instigated an investigation into the incident from an occupational safety and health perspective in accordance with their statutory remit. This investigation is currently on going.
