Vol. 431 No. 5
67 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport, Energy and Communications if he has satisfied himself that sufficient raw materials exist to facilitate the continued generation of electricity from solid fuel, with particular reference to the need to create or sustain employment in accordance with the Programme for a Partnership Government 1993-1997; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Electricity generation in Ireland is based on a range of sources — oil, coal, gas, hydro and peat. The objective is to maintain a balanced mix of fuel sources, including solid fuels.
Coal supplies are currently imported for use in Moneypoint and the ESB's fuel purchasing arrangements ensure that fuel is available as required.
In relation to indigenous solid fuel sources, the Government is committed to peat's continued use for electricity generation. The Programme for a Partnership Government committed the Government to supporting a new 120MW peat fired station, which would result in the creation of about 350 long term jobs, if it is found to be feasible. Such a station would require one million tonnes of peat annually and Bord na Móna is satisfied that it can produce and deliver such quantities over the life of the power station.
