Speaking at the recent Energy Forum 2008, Minister Eamon Ryan cited a report which showed that various sectors could reduce their energy use by one quarter based solely on actions that pay for themselves through their energy cost savings.

In total, the report indicated that these savings could reduce the country’s carbon emissions by over six million tonnes.

“This study establishes that the Irish energy savings targets, while challenging, are certainly achievable,” Mr Ryan said.

“More importantly, it establishes the business case for energy efficiency, showing that the economic benefits far outweigh the costs.

“The analysis indicates that meeting the 2020 national energy efficiency target will bring economic benefits that outweigh the costs by on average close to Euro 300 million per annum over the period between now and 2020.”

David Taylor, chief executive of Sustainable Energy Ireland, added that opting for energy efficient systems was a “win-win policy option” as it delivered “public and private benefits at low or no net cost”.

James Cooper

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