Wind of change Billboard campaign for clean energy source sweeps in over next 2 weeks

A CAMPAIGN highlighting wind energy’s role in tackling climate change launches today.

The posters will appear on 45 billboards and bus shelters in Cork, Donegal, Dublin, Galway, Kerry, Offaly, Tipperary, Waterford and Westmeath over the next two weeks.

They were revealed by Environment Minister Richard Bruton and the Irish Wind Energy Association.

Spokesman Dr David Connolly said: “Our billboard campaign is highlighting the role wind energy has played in leading the move away from fossil fuels and towards clean, renewable, electricity.

“The more wind energy we use, the fewer our carbon dioxide emissions.”

The most recent report from the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland found wind energy was responsible for avoiding 2.7 million tonnes of

CO2 emissions in 2017.

Last December the Environmental Protection Agency announced a 21% rise in electricity generated by wind in

2017 was largely responsible for a sharp fall in CO2 emissions.

Dr Connolly said: “Wind energy is the cleanest and cheapest source of renewable electricity. Last year we provided 29% of Ireland’s electricity but that is not enough. Ireland must do better.

“Wind – with other renewables like solar and biogas, alongside battery technology and greater interconnection – can provide 70% of our electricity by 2030. “This target is supported across the renewable energy sector and w e hope Minister Bruton will endorse it in the climate action plan he will publish shortly.

“With the right leadership we can be ambitious for Ireland’s energy future and for our role in the fight against climate change.”

The billboard campaign is unlikely to impress the Government’s political opponents who have consistently criticised their alleged inaction over climate change.

Ireland has been ranked worst in Europe on action in the Climate Change Performance Index 2019 – 48th out of the 57 entities measured.

Green Party leader Eamon Ryan has accused the Government of being “two-faced” when it comes to climate. He said: “Fine Gael’s record on dealing with the climate crisis has been pitiful. “They get out in the media and make great noise about their deep concern for our future but behind closed doors they support huge increases in emissions in transport, agriculture, and award licences to explore for oil and gas.”