asked the Minister for Energy if his attention has been drawn to a report (details supplied) that Ireland will need three nuclear power stations by the year 2000; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Nuclear Power.
195.
My attention has been drawn to the statement referred to by the Deputy. I would refer him to the arrangements envisaged, which have been mentioned publicly on a number of occasions, for an assessment and review of the nuclear power project. The Deputy will be aware of the assumptions made in the press report to which he refers on such questions as economic growth rates and the possible energy mix by the year 2000. In looking at possible developments between now and the end of the century there is obviously very considerable and legitimate scope for debate on how various relevant factors will turn out. These variable factors include the effects on energy demand of the downturn in the world economy which will continue to affect national economies, the savings that may be achieved through conservation and diversification programmes and the possible contribution from renewable sources of energy and from greater or more effective use of indigenous resources.
We need to get a better assessment of these factors than we have at present. I have already announced certain initiatives, for instance, the possibility of an extended natural gas grid, a scheme for practical testing of wind power capability, the increased use of turf and coal for electricity generation, a review of possible additional hydro-generation and the biomass project. I have also taken the first steps in a major review and reorientation of energy conservation programmes. When we have gone some distance further down the road on these comprehensive programmes we will be in a better position to assess what our future energy requirements will be and how these can best be met.