Minister of State, Tony Killeen today lauded the work being undertaken in the Midwest to promote the use of renewable and sustainable energy technologies.

Speaking following a visit to the annual Sustainable Energy Ireland (SEI) Energy Show, Minister Killeen said that the region had played a leading role in the growth of the country's thriving sustainable energy sector.

He said: "Driven by Government policy, new planning and building regulations, today renewable energy technology has progressed from the status of desirable to essential.

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"Householders, business owners and local authorities across the Midwest have, in many respects, set an example for other regions to follow in relation to embracing the potential of renewable energy technologies."

The Minister said that the Midwest would again highlight the region's considerable role in promoting sustainable energy when the County Clare Wood Energy Project hosts a National Seminar and Open Day next week.

"There are a large number of private and publicly owned companies and organisations now specialising in promoting the use of renewable energy technologies. I was delighted to meet some of the region's leading companies in this area at the Energy Show, including Timber Pro and Energy Automation Systems Ireland. I believe the success of such firms is indicative of the country's increased energy demand, as well as changing values and lifestyles," he said.

(VB/JM)