Brendan Smith (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail)
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Question 52: To ask the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he has considered the possible contribution of microbes to the production of sustainable biofuels rather than more conventional plant production; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15942/11]

Pat Rabbitte (Dublin South West, Labour)
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The EU Renewable Energy Directive of 2009 sets a binding 2020 target of 10% renewable energy in Transport for each Member State. In common with other Member States, Ireland is committed to ensuring that approximately 10% of road transport fuel in Ireland is biofuel by 2020.

To date the majority of biofuels brought to market have been first generation. These biofuels are produced from numerous sources, the most common of which are sugar cane, maize and wheat. There are growing and profound uncertainties over the extent to which first generation biofuel on a very large scale can be brought to market globally without causing severe effects in the food commodities markets. There are also concerns about the sustainability of such production.

Second generation biofuels come from wastes, residues or non-food material. These generally have little impact on land use or sustainability. International research shows that algae have the potential to produce around 60 times more biodiesel per hectare that oil seed rape. They generally offer higher Greenhouse Gas savings and have no effect on food prices. At present, these technologies are at a pre commercial stage, but are believed to show promise.

To encourage the development and use of second generation biofuels, Ireland's Biofuel Obligation Scheme, in line with the EU Renewable Energy Directive, awards double certificates for each litre of second generation biofuel placed on the market.

The Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) has reviewed the potential of Marine Algae as a Source of Biofuel in Ireland. This work is serving as a good basis to inform further research and development work on the potential use of marine algae for biofuel production.

In a joint Inter-reg funded project with Scotland and Northern Ireland Irish researchers are working to demonstrate the feasibility and viability of producing biofuels from marine biomass, including seaweeds. The project was launched in 2009. Initial indicators are positive, but the outcome is as yet unclear in terms of the scope for actual production in Ireland. My Department will continue to monitor national and international developments in all second generation biofuels.