On the basis of the information collated in the time available, it is estimated that my Department spent approximately €300,000 in 2002 on energy costs relating to office accommodation within the State.
In 2006, the estimated expenditure on energy costs for office accommodation within the State was €600,000 approximately. However, it should be noted that this figure includes energy costs of €144,000 in respect of the Passport Office premises in Balbriggan, a relatively new facility that was not operational in 2002.
In 2002, the total expenditure on energy for properties of Irish diplomatic missions abroad was €718,300. In 2006, the total expenditure on energy abroad was €954,000, although the number of our missions would have increased in the intervening period.
The Department keeps its expenditure on energy under constant review and, with a view to complying with best practice in the area of energy conservation, participates with other Government Departments in an energy users group under the direction of the Office of Public Works.