Dublin call for renewables spending

Irish energy minister Alex White has called for a review of Dublin’s capital spending plan to allow for more state investment in renewables.

White said improving public finances will allow the government to spend more on large-scale investments in renewable energy, energy efficiency and green transport.

The Labour TD said that if his party is returned to government in next month’s general election he will prioritise increased capital investment in the sector.

“We need, as a country, to recommit ourselves to a scale of investment necessary to make our low-carbon ambition a reality,” said White.

“The Government’s capital spending plan, published last September, demonstrates that we are alive to the challenge. But, while significant, it will not be enough to address the entire range of medium to long-term social, economic and environmental priorities that require substantial investment.”

He added: “If we are returned as part of the next coalition government, Labour will prioritise capital investment in a broad range of areas.

“This will include Better Energy Communities and other programmes that will help us meet the challenge of global warming, which requires large-scale investment in energy efficiency, renewables, and green transport.”

Image: Irish Labour Party