Seán Canney (Galway East, Independent) | Oireachtas source

Microgeneration is a very small part of the overall plan. It is important for communities and that we do that in a way that will work. It is expensive and we need to make sure that whatever scheme we bring in will be cost effective. That is the reason the pilot has been done. It will be renewed this year and will be brought forward. We are looking at other schemes. As I said earlier, the big schemes such as offshore and on-shore energy, wind farms and solar are where we might get the bigger hits in terms of creating more sustainable energy.

Referring to Deputy Deering, we know the problem is the delays in getting the processes and the consent to do the work. I would point out a number of aspects in that regard. The action plans for local authorities have been published, which will help them speed up the process by which planning permissions can be granted.

Also, the action plan on climate change is being prepared by the Minister, Deputy Bruton. That is a cross-departmental plan which will be brought forward in the spring. We need to make sure that we examine the deficiencies in our system so that we can create the environment that will allow people get on with these worthy projects. That is what the action plan is all about.

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