James Bannon (Longford-Westmeath, Fine Gael)
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Question 596: To ask the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he will support the introduction of a district heating system in conjunction with the Lanesboro Power Station, County Longford and the provision of funding for a feasibility study for same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18756/07]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin South, Green Party)
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District heating can play a critical role in reducing greenhouse gases and promoting sustainable development. It is influenced by a range of factors, including environmental conditions, availability of heat sources and suitable markets. The systems used to provide district heating fall into two broad categories — dedicated central boilers or power stations using Combined Heat and Power (CHP).

Sustainable Energy Ireland (SEI) has funded district heating systems under its House of Tomorrow programme. The Renewable Heat (ReHeat) and CHP Programmes, also provide assistance for the deployment of renewable heating systems in industrial, commercial, public and community premises. The use of power stations for the provision of district heating depends on a range of factors including the relationship between power demand and heat demand, particularly outside of the heating season. The district receiving the heat is generally located within a couple of kilometres of the power station.

In relation to the specific use of the 150MW peat-fired West Offaly Power station at Lanesboro, Co. Offaly, I would point out that this plant is owned and operated by the ESB. All operational matters, including the question of supplying a district heating system from the station, are matters that fall within the day-to-day responsibility of the company and not ones in which I have a function. Therefore, any undertaking of a feasibility study into the development of a district heating system at West Offaly Power would require, in the first instance, the submission of a proposal by the company to SEI.