Dinny McGinley (Donegal South West, Fine Gael)
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Question 56: To ask the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he has in mind proposals to develop the alternative energy sector with a view to a reduction in fossil fuel importation and a higher degree of compliance with the Kyoto principles; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13797/06]

Dinny McGinley (Donegal South West, Fine Gael)
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Question 107: To ask the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his preferred options in respect of the various methods of electricity generation in the future; the desirable proportions of hydro, wind, bio or other methods; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13796/06]

John Browne (Wexford, Fianna Fail)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 56 and 107 together.

The problem of dealing with high fossil fuel dependence as carbon constraints become more pressing is not unique to Ireland. At EU and international level, energy policy is increasingly focusing on the development of alternative renewable energy sources, increasing energy efficiency and managing energy demand in response to the need to limit CO2 emissions. These are also key imperatives for Irish energy policy.

We are on target to meet our objective of increasing electricity generated from renewable sources to a minimum of 13.2% of total consumption by 2010. Wind generation is likely to remain the dominant technology in the short term for delivering this target, while research and development into other renewable energy sources, including wave technology, is being undertaken as a priority.

Targets beyond 2010 will be determined in the context of the development of an all-island electricity market. The aim is to develop a long-term strategy to support increased renewable energy penetration on the island as a whole. As part of this work a major grid study is under way to examine the implications of significantly increased renewables in the electricity mix on the island by 2020.