Eamon Ryan (Dublin South, Green Party)

The strategy will also bring down prices because that grid development will allow us to tap into the renewables that bring prices down. That is the right policy to follow for economic growth prospects and lower prices. Today we have seen a further allocation of funding towards energy insulation. It is an example of where we can leverage State aid and work with banks and householders to make the best possible investment to help people cut their fuel bills, save the money they spend on energy and at the same time create thousands of new jobs. When we look at this equation in energy policy in terms of competitiveness, sustainability and supply, we must also examine the prospects of directing funding and support to job protection and creation, which both the Government and energy companies can do. In the long run, it should also help us to protect our economy from future volatility in electricity prices by spending on energy efficiency, grid connection and experimental research and development in power generation supplies.

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