Denis Naughten (Roscommon-Galway, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I am not just the Minister for energy. That is why I have told the Deputy in my response that not only is it important that we have power in this country, but that it be clean power as well. I am determined to ensure that we have the cleanest possible generation. In terms of renewables, we have significant opportunities off our east and, in particular, west coasts. We have approximately 50 GW of potential electricity in that regard. I have previously spoken about an interconnector between the west coast and France to allow for the export of that to the European grid. However, we must also consider the short-term issues. Security of supply is a short-term issue for us, and that is something of which I as energy Minister must be conscious.

Regarding the three projects whose promoters have been in contact with my Department, no decision has been made to invest in any of them. I do not know whether any of them will go ahead. That is a matter for the investors involved.

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