Wind energy sector calls for government backing

THOUSANDS of jobs could be created and 40% of our long-term energy needs met by wind energy if Government backs the sector.

Five leading wind energy players in Ireland have lined up over more than €4 billion in investments to spearhead the initiative but they lack a commitment from the Government to put an expanded grid in place which would cost about €1bn.

The cost of energy is rising, but if Eirgrid bore the cost of extending the grid it would mean more pay back to Eirgrid as well as cheaper energy in the long term.