IFA seeks support for rural renewable energy

A feed-in tariff and preferential grid access are needed to make on-farm and community renewable energy possible, said IFA president Joe Healy.

The IFA leader told the Smart Farming Spring seminar in Portlaoise that the Government needs to develop a comprehensive climate action plan to harness the potential of agriculture.

Mr Healy said:

Government seems prepared to write a cheque to buy compliance with 2020 climate targets rather than working with farmers who could deliver on bio-energy, fossil fuel displacement

IFA wants the Irish Government to insist that the CAP Budget for Ireland is increased to cover the costs of inflation and any extra climate and environmental obligations facing farmers.

IFA environment chair Thomas Cooney said average cost savings on Smart Farming participant farms in 2018 was €7,000. It also identified ways to reduce climate impact by 9%.

The IFA is encouraging farmers to attend series of open farmer meetings with candidates running in the European election. Following the Tuesday night meeting in Springfort Hall, Mallow, Co Cork, will be events in Bloomfield House Hotel, Mullingar, Co Westmeath, on Wednesday, May 1, and in Springhill Court Hotel, Kilkenny, on Tuesday, May 7.