This is according to a new report launched by the Authority at an event in Dublin. The report, Ireland's Sustainable Energy Supply Chain Opportunity, which was carried out in consultation with the enterprise agencies: Enterprise Ireland, IDA Ireland and Forfás, is the first to examine in detail how well the Irish supply chain is positioned to capture new business arising from expected investment in energy efficient and renewable energy products and services required to meet energy targets for 2020.
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The report estimates that Ireland is currently spending €1.5 billion per annum on sustainable energy solutions, supporting 18,000 jobs. Most of the increased expenditure over the next six years, which can support up to 30,000 jobs, is expected to come from the manufacturing and construction sectors, where the capacity to upscale is readily available with a qualified workforce.
Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources, Mr Pat Rabbitte, T.D. said: "Ireland is focussed on seeking cost efficient contributions to the decarbonisation of the economy. The Green Paper creates a forum for discussion on this and on how we will expand our sustainable energy markets to 2020 and beyond. As the sustainable energy transition continues to gather momentum, Ireland must position itself to capture the economic benefits available. This requires diverse skillsets, as well as technology-specific knowledge, characteristics that Ireland’s flexible and well educated workforce is ready to provide."
In addition to the requirements to meet Ireland’s sustainable energy targets, there are further business opportunities in EU and international markets, with the EU market estimated to be 70 times that of Ireland. As a clean energy location, with a more diverse and secure energy supply, together with active supply chains, Ireland has the opportunity to attract further Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in this area.
(CD/MH)
