A large construction company and Ireland's largest forestry management company have joined forces to offer what they say is green sustainable energy 10% cheaper than oil or gas aimed initially at commercial clients, but which is also suitable for residential developments.
The Joint Venture (JV) between the Bowen Group and forestry company Green Belt was officially launched today by the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources.
Managing Director Joe O'Carroll said the company has immediate capacity to install up to 135MW of biomass - stored solar energy stored in plants - which is the equivalent of €25m of imported oil, with a corresponding reduction of 200,000 tonnes in carbon emissions.
This is enough to heat on average 15,000 homes - a town the size of Naas or Drogheda, he said.
'We are offering cleaner, cheaper energy with immediate cost savings of at least 10% over oil and gas, and the long-term benefits of a secure and stable supply from local, sustainable sources,' he said.
Minister Ryan said the joint venture not only adds greater value to Irish forestry produce but it also contributes to the Government's aim of reducing greenhouse gas emissions through the greater uptake of renewable energy technologies.
Imperative Energy said it is also the first to offer the delivery of woodchip Energy Supply Contracts (ESCOs) in Ireland, whereby all equipment is developed, installed and funded by the company so there is no upfront capital cost for the customer, which eases the move to renewable energy, while leaving the customer to pay only for the energy they use.
