Firm trumpets elephant grass use

THE demand to grow miscanthus cane, otherwise known as elephant grass, has increased dramatically in Munster and Galway in the past three months, according to JHM Crops, based at Kilfinny, Adare, Co Limerick.

It says the reasons for the immense interest include the fact that more people have a better understanding of the crop’s potential and the continued medium to long-term views on the cost of energy.

Other factors are the Government’s determination to address and reduce carbon emissions, and EU and Government grant aid initiatives which cover up to 50% of the establishment costs.

Joe Hogan, JHM Crops, said that, in recognition of the huge interest, it will host a conference (9am-4pm) devoted entirely to miscanthus in Woodlands House Hotel, Adare, Co Limerick, on February 1.

“We have also agreed a number of market outlets for miscanthus cane crop, which we need to commence fulfilling from 2008 onwards as the crop becomes available. We also have many other discussions ongoing.

“If all the demand that we are in consultation with were to come on track, we will have a market for up to 10,000 acres of crop by 2010.

“The price range that we are being offered, based on prevailing energy value of alternatives, to our ‘miscanthus energy’ customers would typically yield a net €250 — €300 per acre to a grower after very little labour or other costs after planting.”