The alternative energy requirement, AER, programme, which is administered by my Department, is the only support mechanism for renewable and alternative energy under my direct control and it is not a grant aid type of support. Sustainable Energy Ireland administers a research, development and demonstration programme for renewables with an overall budget of €16.25 million to 2006. The programme is open to all renewable energy technologies and covers a range of proposal types including policy studies, field research, feasibility studies and technology research and development. The programme aims to stimulate the deployment of renewables close to market and address the need for information and education which are required to raise the awareness and willingness of all relevant players to actively engage in the market.
The main focus of the programme is on stimulating increased application and deployment of renewable technologies. Sustainable Energy Ireland is an independent non-commercial State body and as such I have no function in the administration of its programmes.