John Curran (Dublin Mid West, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I welcome the opportunity to contribute to the discussion on an issue in which I have considerable interest. The programme for Government is extremely light in terms of its narrative on solar power. The Minister hit the nail on the head when he indicated that the output of proposed solar power projects would meet national energy demand. The problem in this area was identified by An Bord Pleanála when, in a ruling refusing a planning application in the south east, it pointed out that it did so in the absence of national guidelines. It stated, "There is a lack of guidance at national, regional and local level in relation to the appropriate location, scale and distribution of future proposals for solar power." Moreover, it was not satisfied that the proposed development "would not be premature pending the adoption of national, regional or local guidance or strategy for solar power." If we do not organise and adopt a strategy and proper planning process for solar power, the chaotic scenario described by the Minister will arise.

The Minister indicated that prices for solar power are declining. While it is understandable that companies would like to enter the solar power market, the sector is crying out for a Government strategy and direct guidelines. Solar power cannot provide a solution to all our demands for renewable energy but it has a role to play. It is up to the Government to provide guidelines to ensure we have a sustainable programme.

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