Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 9 April 2014
110. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if a detailed study has been conducted into the viability of biomass in view of recent advancements in technology and practice in the area; if his Department has considered utilising fallow motorway setbacks to this end; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16857/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department is currently finalising a Bioenergy Strategy which will set out the actions required to optimise the contribution that energy from biomass can make to achieving Ireland's 2020 renewable energy targets. Analysis underpinning the strategy suggests that targeted measures to incentivise the use of biomass for energy can have a significant impact particularly in the heat sector and recommendations will shortly be brought forward in this regard. The maintenance of the motorway network, including planting on roadside verges, is a matter for the National Roads Authority, which falls under the remit of the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport. I have no plans to use motorway setbacks for bioenergy related initiatives.
