The European Union deal to set new climate change targets for 2030 has been welcomed by the Irish Wind Energy Association (IWEA).

The targets have been set to boost the development of renewable energy, reduce emissions and improve energy savings.

Kenneth Matthews, CEO of IWEA, said: "The 16 years from today to 2030 are vital make-or-break years for our climate future. This agreement reaffirms wind and renewable energy as a core tool for breaking down our emissions addiction and fostering green economic growth.

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"This EU deal represents a first step. Governments, communities and business leaders need to show the vision, leadership and commitment to ensure climate change is tackled. Words are not enough, joint actions now are the currency of our climate and energy future, as we look towards a global climate deal in Paris in 2015.

"Ireland will benefit hugely from a continued international focus on renewable energy which really plays to our strengths as a nation with huge wind energy opportunities both onshore and offshore. We must be aware however that national economic policy must work hand in hand with climate policy to deliver the 2020 and 2030 targets."

(CD/JP)