Energy in Agriculture 2018 Launched

On Tuesday, 21st August Gurteen Agricultural College in Co Tipperary will play host to thousands of farmers and industry representatives during Energy in Agriculture 2018 which was launched today by Minister for Communications, Climate Action, and Environment, Denis Naughten TD. Energy in Agriculture 2018 will explore the latest renewable energy opportunities to use clean technology, drive efficiency and manage business costs in Irish agriculture. The event, which is in its third year, is jointly -organised by Teagasc, Tipperary Co Council, IFA, Tipperary Energy Agency, Gurteen College with the Irish Farmers Journal as media partners.

Energy in Agriculture 2018 will feature a comprehensive seminar programme with some of the leading experts in the industry. This, combined with a showcase of technology suppliers, funding providers and advisory bodies, means the event is a one-stop shop for pioneering agri-businesses.

Speaking at the launch on the farm of Gerard Coyle, Athleague, Co. Roscommon, Minister Naughten said: “Renewable energy will have a transformative positive impact in rural areas and will offer new farm diversification opportunities. I will be announcing details shortly of a planned pilot scheme to support micro generation, which will initially target solar PV for self-consumption. This and other new schemes such as the Support Scheme for Renewable Heat (SSRH) and the Renewable Electricity Support Scheme (RESS) will make clear the government’s commitment to long term support of Ireland’s renewable industries. Communities are the very fabric of the new RESS and the scheme will provide pathways and supports for community-led renewable electricity projects. Energy in Agriculture 2018 provides an ideal platform to highlight the role that renewables and the bio-economy can play in overcoming our energy and sustainability challenges.”

Speaking at the launch Barry Caslin from Teagasc said: “Farmers could play a significant role in the decarbonisation of Ireland’s national heat supply, although it would be a huge challenge. With dramatic falls in the cost of solar photovoltaic’s, on-shore and off-shore wind, biogas AD opportunities as well as battery energy storage technology, the prospect of complete decarbonisation of Irelands electricity supply is now in sight. An increased supply of agricultural feedstocks will be needed to fuel such growth in the bio-based economy, including a large fleet of bio-methane plants and new processes such as synthetic gas from biomass.”

IFA Renewables Chair Tom Short said: “Energy in Agriculture 2018 provides a real opportunity for farmers to hear from experts and share their own knowledge and experiences. As the voice of Irish farming, IFA wants to see profitable, sustainable, resilient and diversified farm businesses. The management of energy costs and investment in clean technologies is a key part of this. Farm-scale, micro and community based renewable energy projects must underpin the next phase of Ireland’s response to the energy and climate challenges facing the sector.”

Those attending this free of charge, Department of Agriculture Knowledge Transfer approved Energy in Agriculture event can expect:

• Practical demonstrations on renewable energy production in all agricultural sectors.

• Three venues with on-going talks on practical energy usage, sustainability and challenges in renewables.

• Energy expo exhibitor arena and cost saving tips to reduce energy bills.

• FREE 1:1 legal and financial advice clinics with industry experts.

• An innovation showcase which demonstrates new sustainability innovations.

Full details of Energy in Agriculture 2018 are available at https://energyinagriculture.ie/