IFA attacks renewable energy study

THE Irish Farmers Association has criticised the All-Island Grid Study published last week by the Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources.

It claimed the study failed to recognise the extent to which farmers can play a pivotal role in carbon emission reduction while providing a secure energy supply through renewable electricity, heat and transport fuel initiatives.

IFA Environment Committee chairman Tom Dunne said as far back as the year 2000, the European climate change programme clearly identified that the agricultural sector could contribute significantly to fulfilling Kyoto reduction objectives.

“Farmers are prepared to invest in renewable energy production and can provide carbon-neutral energy.

“However for farmers to maximise their participation in renewable energy production, the Government must provide a realistic feed-in tariff, simplified access to the grid network and the priority use of renewable energy,” he said.

Mr Dunne said wind only represents one of many renewable energy options.

Meanwhile, recent figures have shown an increase in the number of acres devoted to growing energy crops in Ireland.

JHM Crops Ltd, Adare, which is promoting miscanthus as a viable alternative crop, will hold an information meeting in the Hibernian Hotel, Mallow, on Thursday at 8pm for potential growers.