Paul Gogarty (Dublin Mid West, Green Party)
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Question 23: To ask the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the measures his Department, in co-operation with other Departments, has taken to encourage the development of locally generated renewable energy in remote areas, including the islands. [16654/05]

Éamon Ó Cuív (Galway West, Fianna Fail)
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In July 2004 I launched the Western Development Commission's publication "To Catch the Wind", which explores the potential for community owned wind farms in Ireland. This guide provides detailed information to communities who wish to become involved in wind energy development.

Funding is available under the Leader+ and area based rural development initiatives for environmentally friendly initiatives, including the provision of a range of assistance types for developing alternative-renewable energy and waste management initiatives using new technologies and know-how.

Funding can also be provided by Údarás na Gaeltachta to community based groups in Gaeltacht areas, including Gaeltacht islands, to investigate the possibility of establishing renewable energy projects.

The Deputy may also be interested in the alternative energy requirement, AER, programme, which seeks applications from groups to build, own and operate renewable energy generating plants, and to supply electricity from these to the Electricity Supply Board. This programme is administered by the Department of Communications, Marine and Natural Resources.