Government invests in green energy R&D

06-03-2008

by Charlie Taylor

The Government is to invest EUR200 million in energy-related R&D over the next few years, with EUR90 million set aside for a 'world-class research capacity'.

Speaking at a conference on sustainable energy, Taoiseach Bertie Ahern said that Ireland was uniquely placed to secure its economic future by marking itself out as a centre of the global green energy boom.

"Our objective is an energy policy based on secure sources of supply, that promotes competitiveness, and is environmentally sustainable," Ahern told delegates at the Energy Forum 2008, which is taking place Thursday in Dublin.

The Taoiseach said energy is a key part of the Government's Strategy for Science, Technology and Innovation and that some EUR200 million would be invested in energy-related research and development over the next five years.

"Today's announcement is significant and shows our determination to honour our commitments in this important area under the Programme for Government," said Ahern. "Through research and development Ireland can take a lead in developing environmental solutions and products. This investment will achieve a win/win situation of improved competitiveness and environmental performance. The EUR200 million will be made available over the next five years," he added.

As part of that investment, an allocation of EUR90 million has been made available to target a world-class research facility in the area of sustainable energy and energy technologies.

Announcing the research facility funding, Minister for Enterprise Trade and Employment, Micheal Martin said that he had reached agreement with the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources on the principles and funding to be targeted through Science Foundation Ireland (SFI). The funding will form part of SFI's plans to include a third research pillar in the areas of sustainable energy and energy technologies.

"Through innovation as well as investments such as today's in research and development Irish business with the support of the Government is viewing the environment and our energy needs not as challenges but as opportunities whereby Ireland can take a lead in the development of cutting edge solutions," said Minister Martin.

He added that it was important the opportunities and challenges in the energy field are underpinned by the knowledge, understanding and the human capital that investment in world-class research can provide.

"SFI has an excellent track record in developing Strategic Research Clusters and Centres working alongside industry partners and these opportunities will now be extended to sustainable energy and energy efficiency technologies," Minister Martin concluded.