Willie Penrose (Westmeath, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 165: To ask the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his views on targets for renewable energy for 2010, 2020, 2030, 2040 and 2050; his further views on whether the vast bulk of Irish energy needs could be provided by renewables in the medium to long term; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34372/05]

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

Within the electricity market, a target is established to increase the amount of electricity consumed from renewable energy sources to 13.2% by 2010. This is regarded as a challenging target to achieve. Currently we have 675 MW of renewable capacity connected to our system and to reach the 2010 target we will have to more than double the present renewable capacity. Current industry build rate shows that the required level is achievable.

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.

The question of what further targets can be set and in what timeframe is one that requires further analysis and technical input, largely but not exclusively, in regard to grid and associated economic issues.