Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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Question 182: To ask the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the number of companies currently involved in the production of bio-diesel or ethanol; the extent of production in each case in the past 12 months with particular reference to companies approved for excise exemption; the number of such companies that have not as yet produced any product; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24340/09]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin South, Green Party)
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The Biofuels Mineral Oil Tax Relief (MOTR) Schemes have resulted in 18 projects overall being awarded excise relief between 2005 and 2010. Of these projects, four are in the biodiesel category, four are in the bioethanol category, five are in the captive fleets category and five are in the pure plant oil category. My Department does not have details of companies outside of the MOTR Schemes who may be producing biofuel.

It would not be appropriate for me to comment on the position of individual companies within the schemes. I can advise the Deputy that under Scheme One over 6.8 m litres of biofuel has been produced while in 2008 over 82 million litres of biofuel was produced under the MOTR Scheme II.

Overall there have been at least five biofuels plants constructed or redeveloped on foot of excise relief granted under the schemes. A number of others are either at an advanced stage of planning, or have received planning permission. All but two of the projects are currently availing of the excise relief and my Department liaises with all project promoters on a regular basis.