The co-operation of farmers is “essential” if EirGrid and the EBS are to develop the grid infrastructure, say the Irish Farmers’ Association (IFA).
Plans unveiled by EirGrid include having 500MW of electricity coming from micro-generation by 2030.
Currently, Ireland’s farms are behind most of the EU countries for renewable energy from agriculture, producing 2.6 per cent to the EU-27 average of 12.1 per cent.
IFA environment chair, Paul O’Brien, said it was encouraging to see the increased target for micro-generation by 2030, as set out by EirGrid.
“Farmers want to be central players in Ireland’s energy transition,” Mr O’Brien said.
“They recognise the opportunities of micro-generation to produce energy for their use and diversify their farm income by selling excess energy back to the grid, thus enhancing the sustainability of their farm business.”
Tim Cullinan, the IFA president, added it was paramount that farmers’ support was recognised and respected.
“Farmers recognise the need for infrastructure development and in general have facilitated the process over the years,” he added.
He also argued that farmers are entitled to compensation for all damages, losses, disturbance, inconvenience and costs, including the devaluation of their properties and the impact on their farming businesses.
LSL News.