The Government has launched a new two-year awareness campaign aimed at addressing the issue of energy efficiency.
Minister Noel Dempsey: says this campaign will challenge people to make a 'postive impact'.
The "Power of One" campaign, which is being overseen by the Department of Communications, Marine and Natural Resources, is designed to highlight ways in which individuals can reduce wasteful energy consumption.
Sustainable Energy Ireland, a national agency established by the Government in 2002, is also involved in the nationwide initiative.
The campaign is hoping to build awareness about the impact that inefficient energy use has in terms of costs and effect on the environment. It also aims to encourage individuals to change their behaviour to consider using more efficient types of energy.
According to figures from the Department, Ireland's total annual energy requirement grew in absolute terms by 59 per cent between 1990 and 2004 and continues to rise.
The "Power of One" campaign will be backed by a nationwide advertising campaign and includes a number of educational and information initiatives. A new website has also been set up which shows how households and businesses can save energy and money by cutting down on energy usage.
Minister Noel Dempsey
Minister Noel Dempsey said that everyone could take small steps to make a difference.
"Energy is essential to our daily lives. It heats our homes, fuels our transport and supplies our electricity. I believe that each of us has a responsibility to make at least one energy usage change," he said.
"This campaign will pose that challenge and encourage the opportunity for everyone to make a positive impact.
"I also believe that Government departments and the public sector generally have a responsibility and opportunity to lead by example on energy efficiency. Whether it is a local authority or decentralising Department or a State Agency, every part of the public sector should be leading the way on efficient use of energy".
The Minister also announced plans for all-island co-operation on energy efficiency in the coming months.