Irish Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources, Pat Rabbitte, launched yesterday the Government’s Strategy for Renewable Energy 2012-2020. The strategy involves wind, wave and tidal power, bio energy and R&D.
The document says that green energy and clean technology already support about 19,000 working positions in the country.
According to the Irish Times, Mr Rabbitte will be meeting UK Energy Minister Charles Hendry next month in order to discuss an agreement that could allow Ireland to export electricity, generated from onshore and offshore renewable sources.
Before Ireland can begin with the renewable power export to Britain, the governments will have to close a trade agreement.
The National Offshore Wind Ireland organisation welcomes the agreement,saying that it would increase investment and employment.
The Irish Government is committed to the agreement with the EU which demands 40% electricity to be used from renewable power.
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Offshore WIND staff, May 29, 2012; Image: NOW Ireland