Renewable energy crops are now being used to generate electricity commercially for the national grid for the first time, with over 300 farmers are growing crops for power generation.
The Irish Farmers Association says 50,000 direct jobs can be created in the renewable sector, but says Government help is required to make this happen.
Miscanthus is one of the most popular energy crops now being grown in this country.
6,000 acres have now been planted with the six-foot crop, which is also known as elephant grass.
Farmers get Government support for growing energy crops, but they want the Government to ensure they get a good guaranteed price for deliveries to power stations.
