Renewable energy commitment

A Rushen MHK wants to know what the Manx Electricity Authority is doing to increase the proportion of renewable energy generated in the Isle of Man.

Juan Watterson raised the issue in a House of Keys question to MEA Chairman Eddie Teare.

Jason Roberts reports (text, below, from attached audio file):

In his reply, Mr Teare says there has recently been major investment in the Island's power station, which means further expenditure isn't justifiable.

Instead, he says, the MEA's focus will be on making sure the Incinerator and Hydro plant, our only 'renewable' sources of energy, are used to their full potential.

There's also a commitment to helping people financially with private renewable energy sources, and improving energy efficiency throughout the economy.

Finally, Mr Teare maintains the MEA and Government must continue to reduce the Island's carbon footprint and stay on track to reduce our CO2 emissions by 20% in the next three years.