Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 11 June 2013
61. Deputy Brian Stanley asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he will give details of the State investment in the Mount Lucas wind farm project, County Offaly; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26706/13]
View answerThe wind farm project currently under construction at Mount Lucas, Daingean, County Offaly, is a commercial development being progressed by Bord na Móna. The financing of the project on a commercial basis is an operational matter for the company. The project has not received any direct Exchequer support. The development of the Mount Lucas project is a key component of Bord na Móna’s diversification and growth strategy and represents a very substantial investment by Bord na Móna in the renewable sector. The Mount Lucas project is also important in demonstrating the potential which the Midlands holds for the future generation of renewable power.
The potential for job creation in renewable power generation is an important factor in Bord na Móna’s transitioning away from dependence on the declining market for peat and towards a more sustainable future for the company. The project, which is currently under construction, is supporting approximately 100 to 150 jobs. The project will support a further 12 long term jobs when the wind farm is in full commercial operation, which is expected to be in June 2014.
Bord na Móna recently received approval for acceptance of the Mount Lucas project into the Renewable Energy Feed in Tariff, REFIT 2, which is the primary support mechanism for renewable electricity. The REFIT scheme is designed to provide certainty to renewable electricity generators by providing them with a minimum floor price for each unit of electricity exported to the grid over a 15 year period. The REFIT Scheme is open to all prospective generators, whether private sector or commercial State companies.
