Energy Policy

Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources, Noel Dempsey, published a Green Paper on energy in October 2006 followed by a White Paper in March 2007.

In ESPA's view the White Paper has distinctive features of a document that was cobbled together before an election to give the impression that a cohesive energy policy was in place.  In response to the White Paper, ESPA members in ESB published their own paper entitled “An Alternative Energy Policy for Ireland” which outlines in detail their criticisms of the White Paper and suggests alternative proposals - a “must read”, certainly for all members.

Since then national and indeed international events have brought about many changes that will have a big impact on energy policy.  Among factors to be considered are:

1. Bigger scarcity of financial resources in Ireland
2. Higher cost of borrowing
3. Reduced energy demand
4. Reduced growth in the economy
5. Change in attitudes
6. Major nuclear accident in Japan

ESPA is critical of the Government's short term approach to energy policy.  It is ESPA's intention to update its energy policy document to reflect the policy changes needed to accommodate our changed circumstances.