19 Dr. Upton asked the Minister for Public Enterprise if she has satisfied herself that there is sufficient electricity generating capacity to meet demands next winter in view of the fact that the ESB has had to import generators; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22676/00]
Written Answers. - Electricity Generation.
Seymour Crawford
Ceist:31 Mr. Crawford asked the Minister for Public Enterprise if she has satisfied herself that sufficient electricity is available to supply peak-time demand over the coming months particularly in the context of the ESB's decision to lease five emergency generators from the United States; if she will speed up deregulation in order to facilitate new entrants so that supply will be guaranteed; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22457/00]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 19 and 31 together.
Economic growth in recent years is reflected in high levels of growth in demand for electricity by all sectors of the economy, averaging around 6% per annum.
The chairman of ESB has given me a categoric assurance that there will be no shortfall in the electricity supply this winter.
Current levels of growth in demand for electricity will require the provision of between 150 and 200 of additional capacity each year for the foreseeable future, by means of new plant or imports over the interconnector.
An additional 160 generating unit came on stream at Poolbeg earlier this year and the new 120 peat plant at Edenderry will come into operation in the next few weeks, six months ahead of schedule.