Stormont Energy Minister Arlene Foster has called for views on the draft Bioenergy Action Plan, which sets out how Northern Ireland can capitalise on natural energy resources.

Bioenergy is an organic based resource that can be grown or collected, including energy crops, wood products, farm by-products and food processing waste.

Encouraging feedback on the draft plan, the Minister said: "The publication of this first cross departmental draft Bioenergy Action Plan sets out how bioenergy can make an increased contribution to a more sustainable energy future in Northern Ireland."

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She said bioenergy has the potential to contribute to energy supply security, deliver carbon emission reductions and provide employment opportunities.

"I see many opportunities for Government, businesses and energy users in Northern Ireland flowing from the increased sustainable development and usage of bioenergy," said Ms Foster.

"This draft plan sets out proposals to encourage this greater deployment and I would encourage all stakeholders to consider the document and contribute to this consultation process."

The consultation on the draft Bioenergy Action Plan is scheduled to run until 30 October 2009.

(PR/BMcC)