Paul McGrath (Westmeath, Fine Gael)
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Question 20: To ask the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his views on the uncertainty in respect of the Arklow wind energy project; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14527/05]

Willie Penrose (Westmeath, Labour)
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Question 30: To ask the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if his attention has been drawn to the reported decision of a company (details supplied) to abandon plans to build one of the biggest offshore wind farms in Europe off the Arklow coast due to the lack of support for alternative energy; the implications of this decision for alternative energy policy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14398/05]

Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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Question 174: To ask the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his views on the uncertainty in respect of the Arklow wind energy project; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14757/05]

Noel Dempsey (Meath, Fianna Fail)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 20, 30 and 174 together.

Offshore wind energy is a significantly more expensive means of electricity production than onshore wind. While it is appropriate to facilitate demonstration projects to a judicious extent offshore, the fact that there is substantial unexploited potential onshore suggests that the latter should be favoured. That said, there are technical impediments, notably in the area of grid availability and access thereto, which militate against major offshore projects.

I am generally aware that further development of the Arklow project is not intended at this time. It is reasonable to assume, however, that the existing turbines will continue in operation. I have no reason to believe that the situation in regard to Arklow will jeopardise the achievement of the 2010 target for renewable energy. In reply to other questions I have said that we can finalise the new support mechanisms for alternative energy and it is therefore not correct to refer to a lack of support.