“We feel it is important to highlight the part a bio or carbon neutral liquid fuel could play, and to encourage the government to consider alternatives to total electrification of Irish homes.
“Options such as heat pumps are not suitable for many of the homes in Ireland and to retrofit them would be costly. This is especially true for those already living in or are near to being in fuel poverty. Instead, we would urge shorter-term measures such as boiler upgrades, smart metering, and better insulation in homes, as an immediate means of cutting emissions for homeowners and business owners,” added Nick.
“We welcome Ireland’s draft NECP and hope to have the opportunity to be part of a working group,” explained FPS chief executive, Guy Pulham.
“Together with representatives from across the supply chain, including trade associations, refiners, importers, boiler manufacturers and installers, and tank storage, we are looking to work with the government on its planned pathway to a low carbon footprint.
“This is something we have done in the UK and I believe that the working group has proven beneficial in helping the government to understand what is possible in this sector.
“When you factor in that in Ireland the supply and distribution network are already good, and installation costs are low, switching to a bio or low carbon liquid fuel would mean keeping these benefits. Whilst the costs for implementing this transition are unknown at this stage, it’s positive the framework is in place to help keeps costs down. We believe that liquid fuels with declining fossil content can help achieve decarbonisation and support government in maintaining a focus on the needs and finances of their householders.
“Ultimately, we want to work closely with the government and do all we can to help with Ireland’s transition to more renewable energy sources.”