Energy Minister Eamon Ryan and Rural Affairs Minister Éamon Ó Cúiv have unveiled an energy sustainability programme for the Aran Islands.

The programme comprises a feasibility study on a wind and tidal powered energy network for the islands, and effective from 1 January 2009, a 50% increase in grant assistance for energy efficiency, to applicants from the offshore islands.

Support will be doubled for the Greener Homes Scheme Phase III, which allows homeowners to install energy efficient technologies such as geothermal heat pumps, solar panels and biomass boilers and stoves, at a subsidised cost; and the Home Energy Saving Scheme, which permits homeowners to receive a subsidised BER energy assessment, and have the required insulation works carried out at a subsidised cost.

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It is expected it will be launched on a nationwide basis in 2009.

Minister Ryan said: "The offshore islands are a microcosm of the energy challenges facing Ireland. Like the rest of the country, the islands too are dependent on energy imports; experience high fuel costs and have a housing stock which could benefit enormously from an energy efficiency upgrade.

"This initiative will show, with energy-proofed homes and a wind and ocean powered energy network, not only the potential benefits for the islands, but the potential sustainable energy opportunities for wider Ireland."

Minister Ó Cúiv added: "This announcement means that our islands will be energy independent, access a clean and cheap energy supply and have warmer, better-insulated homes.

"In these challenging economic times, the benefits will be significant, creating numerous jobs and attracting new, inward investment. I am delighted to launch this initiative, which will boost the islands in economic terms, and see them setting the mark in energy sustainability."

(PR/JM)