Growing energy crops still a concern

THE economics of growing energy crops in Ireland remains a concern, according to the Department of Agriculture and Food’s annual review and outlook.

It points out that additional incentives are, however, being put in place on the supply side to encourage farmers to grow more of these crops.

The publication stresses that increased usage of biofuels would reduce dependence on fossil fuels and play an important role in reducing carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions. It also represents a new opportunity for farmers and rural communities to get involved in energy crop production.