Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 29 September 2004
677 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he proposed to grant-aid or otherwise incentivise the use of non-fossil fuel energy at a domestic level here in view of the fact that uptake has been relatively low in comparison with other EU member states. [22661/04]
Amharc ar fhreagraIt is not clear to which technologies or energy sources the question refers. That said, I have no funds at my disposal for grant assistance of the type envisaged nor any proposals at present to seek such funds.
Government policy on the sustainable use of energy is directed through Sustainable Energy Ireland, SEI, which was established in 2002 as an independent non-commercial State body. SEI has already commenced a challenging work programme focusing on the deployment of energy efficiency measures and the increased use of our renewable energy technologies.
However, the market for "green" electricity has been fully liberalised for a few years now, allowing producers of such electricity to sell directly to all consumers. The Deputy is welcome to discuss the issues with officials of my Department.
