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Is There a Future for Biofuels in Ireland? PDF Print E-mail
Written by Administrator   
Monday, 13 September 2010 19:32

As countries around the world scramble to come up with more sustainable energy renewal plans, Ireland ponders a question as to whether or not bio-fuels hold a significant role in the future for national energy sustainability.  It would appear, that the good news is progress is being made along these lines.  As with many other countries however there has been some obstacles impeding the progress of the use of bio-fuels.  Most significantly is a debate that continues to be talked about regarding the pros and cons of food as fuel.  It's a tricky question, as many people around the world still cannot seem to meet their daily nutritional needs.

But as I said, progress is being made within the country.  New plant oil units and factories are starting to come on line.  New Ross, actually has four units coming into production.  Another alternative to supply the biomass needs of the country, are wood chips and Chapala Lane facilities.  Willow is a good choice for this particular option.

Given that England falls under the European Union's renewable energy directive plan, there are certain guidelines and protocols that must be adhered to as a member.  There are numerous steps that have been put together.  Just a few of the significant ones are listed here. The plan is intending to keep costs low for the average consumer.  Farmers are a key part of the public, and finding unique, effective and fair incentives for them as part of the plan.  As well, I think most would agree that food production quotas need to be unaffected by the initiative of finding more energy.

Of all the different types of renewable energy solutions out there, ever seen a bio-fuels in Ireland and worldwide suffers from some bad PR.  The food versus fuel discussion is obviously one of them.  Additionally, there is much discussion as to how much of a carbon foot print bio-fuels actually leave.  Of course the best way, to answer the food and fuel problem is to ensure that food production doesn't drop, or become more expensive for those mostly in need.  I don't think anybody on either side could argue this point.  And there has been progress made in this area.

One of the questions a for debate, is whether or not Ireland has opportunity to be a leader in the bio-fuels industry, or this one of the many followers.  There are many proponents in Ireland who believe the the time is right to take a leading role in this emerging industry.  Simply by trying to have their sustainability energy targets, on time, and on budget, will most likely place and was a leader in this sector.

Last Updated on Monday, 13 September 2010 19:59
 
Lower Fuel Prices Coming To Ireland And The Rest Of Europe PDF Print E-mail
Written by Administrator   
Wednesday, 14 July 2010 17:54

After suffering with high fuel prices, it looks like Ireland and the rest of Europe is on the verge of seeing a stabilizing and possibly lowering of current fuel prices over the next few years.  At least that's the word in a recent report from the Deutsche Bank Research group.  Prior to dips in price during the 2009 recession, Ireland saw some pretty substantial increases in fuel prices across the board.  Prior contract agreements from big oil suppliers were partially to blame, as were the steady increase in the price of crude oil.  Now, though due to a number of factors, it looks like things are about to change for Irish drivers.

There are a number of reasons for this change, and generally they would be considered to be good for everyone except possible some of the members of the current OPEC cartel.  New technology plays a large role in the impending glut of oil on other fuels on the market.  Newer technologies for tapping into oil have made it possible to extract oil from sources that were previously considered uneconomical are having a large effect.  Not just because of more oil reserves opening up, but because of where those reserves are.  The reserves tend to be distributed pretty evenly around the world, which means the traditional oil controlling countries are losing their semi-monopoly on one of the the worlds most valuable resource.

The other benefits from technology, are the changes afforded customers in how they burn their energy.  Meaning primarily that alternative energies are now becoming real options for consumers.  Electric, and hybrid cars are just one example.  Wind and solar while still in their infancy in terms of becoming major players are also reducing the demand for traditional demands placed on crude oil and natural gas.  A lot of this is being driven of course by an increased consumer awareness for the environment. 

Last Updated on Wednesday, 14 July 2010 18:23