Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)
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Question 135: To ask the Minister for Transport the measures that have been taken by his Department in recent years to reduce his Department's level of energy consumption; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12730/07]

Martin Cullen (Waterford, Fianna Fail)
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Before outlining the practical measures taken by my Department to reduce energy consumption, I should clarify that the buildings in which my Department is located are sourced through the Office of Public Works, which plays a key role in this area.

The OPW provides expertise, advice and maintenance services concerning energy usage and has, for example, installed its Building Management Systems in buildings occupied by my Department. These high-technology systems control heating, ventilation and air conditioning levels and are subject to constant monitoring by the OPW to ensure that all mechanical plant is operating as efficiently and effectively as possible.

The OPW is also in the process of installing web-based energy monitoring systems which record all energy consumption, including electricity, natural gas and oil, every 15 minutes. Data is automatically transmitted to a central database for normative analysis and any necessary remedial action. Such monitoring systems are currently in place for approximately half of the main buildings in which my Department is located and work is in hands to extend these systems to other Departmental buildings.

I am also concerned to ensure that a general energy conservation culture exists within my Department. Notices are issued periodically to staff stressing the importance of switching off lights and equipment and it is also long-established policy to check buildings at close of business to ensure that lights and non-essential electrical equipment are switched off. The Deputy may also wish to note in this regard that low-energy lighting is used in all general offices in my Department.