The contribution of farmers to the renewable energy sector has not been recognised in Government policies, the IFA said in a submission on future policy in the area. According to James Murphy, IFA’s renewables chair, “inadequate supports have affected participation in and ownership of renewable projects by farmers and the wider rural community”, contributing to a sense of disillusionment toward renewable energy, particularly among those living near large-scale wind energy and biomass projects.
The contribution of farmers to the renewable energy sector has not been recognised in Government policies, the IFA said in a submission on future policy in the area.
According to James Murphy, IFA’s renewables chair, “inadequate supports have affected participation in and ownership of renewable projects by farmers and the wider rural community”, contributing to a sense of disillusionment toward renewable energy, particularly among those living near large-scale wind energy and biomass projects.
The submission cites the previous bad experience of many farmers who undertook renewable projects, and says strong incentives are required to attract future support and investment.
A number of proposals are being made. Priority access for community-based renewable projects is the key one. Significant and guaranteed tariff rates are proposed. For solar energy, around which there is currently some excitement, the tariff should be 17c/kilowatt hour (kWh) for at least 20 years and be index linked for inflation. It should be permitted for solar to link into the national grid through lower voltage power lines, reducing the need for new infrastructure.
For micro wind energy, a 22c/kWh for 20 years index-linked is suggested. The definition of micro energy should be changed to 50kW. For biomass, 22c/kWh is the rate recommended. Incentives for renewable heat generation are also sought, including for grain drying. Tariff rates vary from 13c/kWh for small biomass units (less than 200kW), 8c/kWh for 200kW-1mW and 2.8c/kWh for over 1mW.
The IFA also wants more commitment to anaerobic digestion, with REFIT tariffs of 22-28c/kWh.
“Failure to engage and prioritise community-led projects could see us facing fines of up to €500m,” said Murphy.
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