The Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) and the HSE are leading a new pilot project which involves taxi drivers in Letterkenny using hybrid and electric vehicles to transport renal dialysis patients.

Currently, the patients from Letterkenny University Hospital are transported on a daily basis to attend their essential appointments by local taxi hackney services managed by Local Link. The petrol and diesel vehicles travel 1.3 million kilometres every year in providing the service. It is estimated that savings of €60,000 a year in fuel costs alone could be achieved if these taxis were electric.

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Toyota and Nissan have supplied seven vehicles for the trial.

The SEAI is funding the installation of electric home chargers for the taxi drivers taking part in the pilot.

Denis Naughten , Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment, said: "This is the type of pilot project that has the potential to be expanded across the country. Reducing the carbon footprint of transport is one of Ireland's most pressing challenges.

"The Government has introduced a series of measures, including grants to purchase an electric vehicle and install home charger points to encourage businesses and car owners to move to electric. This electric pilot project is an example of an initiative that will reduce carbon emissions while also saving public money.

"Energy efficiency in the public sector is hugely important in terms of overall climate action and public sector reform. The public sector spends €1,000 per minute on energy every year. This is the public's money so we must be accountable and demonstrate leadership with action."

(CD/LM)