The sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) has announced a new research fund which aims to develop new energy solutions.

More than €2.5 million will support research, development and demonstration energy projects in 2018

Mr Denis Naughten TD, Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment, said: "This investment demonstrates the Government's commitment to advancing research and development in the energy sector and producing real results for the environment and the economy. Ireland faces very significant challenges in meeting our binding climate change targets and avoiding compliance costs. The SEAI RD&D Funding Programme has the potential to develop new and innovative ways to understand our energy use and develop new responses to the energy challenges we face."

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The funding programme is open to a wide range of proposal types including technology RD&D, field research, and feasibility studies.

Mr Jim Gannon, Chief Executive Officer of the SEAI, said: "SEAI is delighted to grow our investment in the solutions that will shape the energy systems of the future. Business, academic and technology alumni of the SEAI RD&D programme continue to thrive, and garner awards, recognising their innovation and entrepreneurship. For every euro SEAI invests in research it attracts three euro in investment from industry which is one of the bests ratios of any research funding body in Ireland. In 2018, we will increase Ireland's level of energy-related RD&D through our collaboration with other research funding bodies, by introducing multi-annual projects and by focusing on strategic areas. This year, SEAI will also host an inaugural National Forum on Energy Research, which will bring together the energy research community, industry and policy-makers to share their experiences and ambitions. We will also further develop our national energy research portal."

(CD/LM)