FG launch green energy plan

Fine Gael has promised a three-year, €500 million, plan aimed at reducing reliance on fossil fuels.

Fine Gael has promised a three-year, €500 million, plan aimed at reducing reliance on fossil fuels.

The party's Green Energy plan would see excise duties removed on all biofuels and additional grants of up to €3,500 to encourage householders to convert to renewable energy for home heating. It has also set a target of having a third of the country's energy requirements coming from renewable sources such as wind and tide by 2025. However, it has ruled out the introduction of nuclear power or carbon taxes.

The party has also promised a "green labelling" system for cars and vehicles, and the reform of the VRT system to benefit cars with the lowest emissions of greenhouse gases. All diesel and petrol sold would have at least a 5 per cent biofuel content.