David Stanton (Cork East, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 159: To ask the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the extent to which he has reviewed the various alternative energy sectors with a view to achieving less dependance on imports; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34481/05]

Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 293: To ask the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the extent to which he has reviewed the various alternative energy sectors with a view to achieving less dependence on imports; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34705/05]

Noel Dempsey (Meath, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

I propose to take Questions Nos. 159 and 293 together.

My Department has conducted a public consultation process on future development of renewable energy to gauge market views on the most appropriate policy initiatives. This process was succeeded by the establishment of a renewable energy development group. The group is chaired by my Department and comprises relevant experts from the administrative, industry and scientific sector, including the Commission for Energy Regulation, CER, Sustainable Energy Ireland, SEI, ESB National Grid and the Economic and Social Research Institute, ESRI, among others.

The work of the group has been informed by the renewable energy consultation process and the submissions made in response to the consultation document. Other inputs to the group came from direct presentations to the group from industry representatives and their associations, analysis conducted by subgroups of the group itself, the work of the CHP strategy group and the bioenergy strategy group. The group has conducted a comprehensive review of available proven technologies. Less developed technologies can avail of the RD and D programmes operated by Sustainable Energy Ireland.

In July, my Northern counterpart, Ms Angela Smith, MP, and I published a preliminary consultation paper on an all-island vision for renewable energy to the year 2020 and beyond. The consultation period recently ended and the response has been very encouraging. The aim is to develop a long-term strategy for renewable energy on the island as a whole.