Launch of energy crop calculators highlights exciting development

THE possibility of using crops for fuel is one of the most exciting developments of recent years.

Sustainable Energy Ireland and Teagasc made this clear when they launched three dedicated energy crop calculators at the national ploughing championships in Cuffesgrange, Co Kilkenny, yesterday.

The hemp, willow and miscanthus calculators provide extensive information including the economics, and the annual value to the farmer-landowner per hectare in growing hemp or willow.