Bio boost for Irish jobs

The Irish bioenergy sector could create up to 3000 jobs if Dublin implements an effective support regime.

Speaking ahead of its annual conference on Wednesday, the incoming president of the Irish BioEnergy Association (IrBEA) Michael Doran said the sector has a role to play in meeting Ireland’s COP21 Paris commitments.

Doran said Irish bioenergy has “unique advantages” for growth.

“It creates jobs and economic activity locally, and it provides a diversified income source for farmers and a secure source of fuel which is not exposed to the volatility of global markets and geo-political upheaval,” he said.

“With an effective Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI), the bioenergy sector could replace €120m per year in imports of oil and gas and create 3000 new jobs by matching locally grown biomass with local energy demand.”

Gaelectric commercial director Eamonn McGrath said the sector is primed to extend the 2000 jobs already in play.

“With the right mix of policies, the Irish bioenergy sector can double in size,” he said.

“The alternative scenarios of fines of up to €600m a year for missing EU targets, lost opportunities for job creation and continuing dependence on imported polluting fossil fuels should not be acceptable.”

Image: sxc