The Republic could face fines of up to €7 billion by 2012 unless it reduces emissions and embraces renewable energy, a conference organised by the wind energy company Airtricity heard yesterday.
The decision by ESB National Grid to halt new wind power projects joining the network, because it fears their lack of reliability could destabilise the grid was criticised.
Broadcaster and environmental campaigner Mr Duncan Stewart he could not understand why the grid and the Government were not doing more to increase the reach of wind power.
The meeting also heard from Mr Christian Kjaer, policy director with the European Wind Energy Association.
He said under the terms of the Kyoto Protocol the Republic was allowed increase its 1990 emissions by 12 per cent. But currently the Republic's emissions were up by 30 per cent over 1990 levels. "Ireland's failure to embrace production of renewable energy means that fines of up to €7 billion could become a reality by 2012".
