Main points of the White Paper
Transfer the ownership of the electricity transmission grid from the ESB to EirGrid, a separate company. The grid includes the large pylons that transmit electricity from power generation facilities to central load centres.
An effective ban on the ESB generating large profits from operating the distribution grid, which supplies electricity to homes and businesses.
The creation of a landbank for power generation sites.
Deliver an all-island energy market this year.
Construct a new interconnector by 2011.
33 per cent target for renewable electricity by 2020, with specific financial supports for renewable energy generators.
The use of "carbon capture" technology to store carbon dioxide emissions from fossil fuel sources, especially coal.
Replacing up to 30 per cent of peat used in fire stations with biomass and organic waste products such as meat and bone meal.
Large-scale funding of at least €€150 million for energy research, including ocean energy and wind technologies.
High levels of support and investment for research and growing of biomass crops.
20 per cent saving in energy across
electricity, transport and heating through improvements in energy efficiency and conservation.
33 per cent energy savings across the public sector.