Dooley highlights growing role of biomass in Ireland’s clean energy future
Published on: 07 May 2026
Minister of State at the Department of Climate, Energy and the Environment, Timmy Dooley TD, has said Ireland’s growing bioenergy sector can deliver major benefits for energy security, rural enterprise and climate action.
Minister Dooley was speaking at the National Bioenergy Conference on Solid Biomass, organised by the Irish Bioenergy Association (IrBEA) in Kilashee House in Kildare today (Thursday 7th May 2026)
Addressing industry representatives and stakeholders, Minister Dooley said renewable heat and biomass will play an increasingly important role in Ireland’s energy future as the country works to reduce reliance on imported fossil fuels and strengthen domestic energy production.
Minister Dooley said, “When people think about renewable energy, they often think first about wind or solar. But renewable heat and bioenergy are also hugely important parts of the transition.
“This is ultimately makes Ireland more energy secure, reduces our dependence on imported fossil fuels and creates economic opportunities here at home. Developing indigenous bioenergy supports jobs, supports local enterprise and helps keep more economic activity within Ireland, rather than exporting energy costs overseas.”
Minister Dooley outlined a number of measures currently being progressed by Government to support the sector, including reforms to the Support Scheme for Renewable Heat and work on the new Renewable Heat Obligation.
He confirmed that issues which have restricted operational supports for larger biomass projects since 2024 are expected to be resolved in the coming weeks.
“We are working to help unlock further investment and give greater certainty to businesses looking to invest in renewable heat and biomass projects. My Department is also working on practical improvements to existing schemes to make them more effective, reduce unnecessary administration and better support growth across the sector.
“At a time when countries across Europe are focused on energy resilience and competitiveness, Ireland needs to continue developing reliable domestic energy sources. Bioenergy has an important role to play alongside other renewable technologies as part of a balanced, secure and sustainable energy system.”
The conference heard that solid biomass remains the largest source of renewable energy in the European Union, while in Ireland it accounts for almost two thirds of all bioenergy.
