| Bord na Móna (BNM) has been announced as the premium sponsor for the Irish Bioenergy Association’s (IrBEA) upcoming National Bioenergy Conference which will take place in Croke Park on February 26th next. The conference titled “Bioenergy – Inspiring the Industry with Opportunity & Vision” will bring together professionals, industry representatives, researchers, farmers, foresters, technology providers and many important stakeholders across the bioenergy sectors of biomass, biogas, biofuels, energy crops and wood fuels. The conference provides a platform to discuss all aspects of the bioenergy industry, its role in the transition to a low carbon economy and the opportunity and role bioenergy has in addressing climate change.
Des O’Toole, IrBEA President, commenting on the conference said, “Sustainably produced biomass will play a key role in Irelands transition from a fossil-fuel based economy to a low carbon economy. We are delighted to welcome Bord na Móna as premium sponsor for this year’s upcoming Irish Bioenergy Association conference. Bord na Móna is actively encouraging the mobilisation of Ireland’s private forestry resources, matching local supply with local energy demand while providing a route to market for these first and second thinnings.” Announcing details of the conference, it was confirmed that the event will hear from industry experts who will share their thoughts and insights into the opportunities that exist for bioenergy in Ireland. Speakers will address some of the key opportunities and challenges which exist for the bioenergy industry such as air quality, need for Government supports, how to establish and develop a bioenergy business in rural Ireland, mobilisation of private forestry resources, the global picture for bioenergy and challenges we face in achieving Irish and European targets. The conference will also provide delegates with an invaluable opportunity to network and meet key individuals and friends working within the industry. Seán Finan IrBEA CEO added: “Bord na Móna is a valued member of our association and is on an exciting transition journey from fossil fuels to renewable energy. The company has a very significant part to play as a large scale user of domestically grown biomass and energy crops. Bord na Móna’s business and power generation activities are responsible for developing indigenous biomass supply chain and markets for biomass materials. The use of indigenous biomass by Bord na Móna will assist Ireland to decarbonisation our energy system but also drive the economic and growth agenda in rural Ireland.” Head of Bord na Móna Powergen Operations, Tom Egan also commented: “The Edenderry Power Station shows the potential of bioenergy and how it can help Ireland transition from fossil fuels to low carbon, renewable energy generation. Our latest figures show 80% of Edenderry’s biomass is supplied by Irish producers. The biomass contribution at Edenderry makes it the biggest supplier of ‘on-demand’ renewable energy on the island of Ireland. This means when the wind doesn’t blow or the sun doesn’t shine we can guarantee a supply of renewable energy to the grid. Ireland aims to have a 70% renewable electricity supply by 2030. By 2024, Edenderry will be generating 100% renewable energy, helping Ireland meet this vital climate action target”. |