NI minister backs renewable energy report

Earlier this week, the Electrical Grid Study was made public and Irish Energy Minister Eamon Ryan welcomed the findings.

Now, Northern Irish Energy Minister Nigel Dodds has added his support to the claims that renewable generation, such as wind turbines and wave power units, could come to play a significant role on the whole island.

He said: “This extensive and highly regarded research will be of international importance and provides evidence for maximising the use of renewable energy in Northern Ireland.

“Being on the periphery of Europe, with access to plentiful renewable energy resources, presents Northern Ireland with a unique challenge.

“We can make a significant contribution to the UK’s climate change goals by enhancing the amount of electricity generated from local renewable sources. This will reduce the harmful effects of greenhouse gases and help Northern Ireland’s contribution to both UK and EU targets.”

Mr Dodds added that the most likely renewable energy source that could be developed in Northern Ireland would be wind turbines and said that he would be working with Mr Ryan to develop new plans and guidelines in the coming months.

James Cooper