John Cregan (Limerick West, Fianna Fail)
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Question 377: To ask the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the funding available within his Department to research and develop a biomass boiler that uses renewable energy feed stock; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44673/08]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin South, Green Party)
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Sustainable Energy Ireland (SEI) operates a number of grant schemes in this area, these include the Renewable Energy Research Development and Demonstration programme, which provides grant support for the development of new renewables energy technologies, including the development of advanced biomass energy systems.

In support of the commercial deployment of biomass heating systems, for the domestic user SEI operates the Greener Homes Scheme, which provides fixed grant support for biomass boilers. At the commercial level, SEI operates the Renewable Energy Heating scheme, which provides 30% grant support for boilers up to 1 Mega Watt in size. Boilers at a size larger than this also qualify for grant support with a slightly reduced rate. Both programmes are designed to stimulate the deployment of renewable energy heating in Ireland and will assist the Government in achieving its target of delivering 12% of its heat from renewable energy sources by 2020.

Depending on the nature of the technology, individuals may apply to SEI for support for the development of renewable technology. Other Departments and Agencies may also offer support for research and development programmes.