‘Decoupled subsidies mean more flexibility in energy crop growing’

LANDOWNERS now have more flexibility to produce different energy crops as most subsidy payments are decoupled from production.

That’s the view of Teagasc bioenergy specialist Barry Caslin, speaking ahead of two important bioenergy events taking place this week.

An energy crops harvesting demonstration and technical information day will take place today in Carlow, organised by Teagasc in association with Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food will be held in Carlow.

A technical information session in the Talbot Hotel this morning will be followed by a demonstration of harvesting machinery for willow and miscanthus crops at Teagasc Research Centre in Oak Park.

Mr Caslin said global warming and climate change are shaping the market for land-based renewable energy crops.

“This event offers farmers an insight into the potential of renewable energy technology, to make a difference in the land-based sectors,” he said.

The National Bioenergy Conference, organised by Teagasc and the Irish Bioenergy Association (IrBEA) with support from FBD Trust, will take place at Tipperary Institute, Thurles, on Thursday with developing and financing bioenergy as the theme.

Speakers will include bioenergy business developers telling the story behind their respective projects, based on wood energy, cereal crops and biofuels. The conference will also provide an update on Government policy and ongoing research and development.