Michael Comiskey (Fine Gael)

I welcome the Minister of State to the House and am delighted to contribute to this debate. I commend the Labour Party on introducing this Bill. I support accelerating the green energy resolution. Renewable energy reduces dependence on fossil fuels, increases security of supply and reduces greenhouse gas emissions, thereby creating environmental benefits, delivering green jobs to the economy and contributing to national competitiveness. As has been stated, we import approximately €6 billion worth of energy derived from fossil fuel. It is important that we put the necessary mechanisms, policies and legislation in place to promote green energy.

According to the Irish Wind Energy Association, IWEA, Ireland's total capacity is 2,031.25 MW, which is generated by 170 wind farms in 27 counties. The west has a predominantly higher capacity for onshore wind energy than the east coast does. This is only natural, given our exposure to the western seaboard.

This Bill will facilitate a system of gaining planning permission for wind turbines. An Bord Pleanála has been identified as the relevant authority in this regard. It is important to set a minimum distance between wind turbine locations and residential properties. Section 4(3) states: "the minimum distance requirement applies to each wind turbine generator individually." This is necessary and will ensure that no erected wind turbine will unduly encroach on residential properties, including farm houses. Section 4(6) adequately addresses this requirement in respect of wind turbines of less than 25 m in height.

Section 5 seeks to safeguard home owners from being unlawfully coerced into agreements to erect wind turbines close to their homes. There must be written agreement in those exceptional circumstances in which a wind turbine's location does not meet the minimum distance requirement. This is a practical proposal. This legislation will minimise the negative effects that wind turbines could have on properties and home owners.

I will address the question of renewable energy. The National Renewable Energy Action Plan, NREAP, sets out the Government's strategic approach and concrete measures for delivering Ireland's 16% target under Directive No. 2009/28/EC on the promotion of energy from renewable sources. The development of renewable energy is central to overall energy policy. While 2020 is rapidly approaching, plans and targets are being devised at EU level for 2030 and beyond. The challenge to promote renewables will not end in 2020. The decisions and actions taken up to that point will pave the way beyond for a resourceful and efficient use of onshore and offshore renewable energy.

The Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland, SEAI, report "Energy Forecasts for Ireland to 2020" estimates that wind energy will account for 85% of our renewable energy by that year. Jobs are directly and inextricably linked with the promotion of renewable energy. Giving projects the green light will create jobs for architects, engineers, suppliers and construction workers. There should be further positive public acceptance campaigns to ensure that communities and interest groups can appreciate the benefits of such projects in their local areas. Wind generating companies are prepared to put a percentage of their profits into communities, for example, GAA and soccer pitches, churches, schools and so on. This is a positive approach.

I commend the Labour Party on introducing these proposals and I look forward to their enactment at an early date.