321 Deputy Brendan Ryan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the position regarding Ireland’s application for REFIT 2 and REFIT 3; when they are likely to be implemented; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30017/11]

There are separate State Aid clearance processes under way with the European Commission in respect of the extension of the REFIT Scheme for the renewable energy technologies of onshore wind, landfill gas and hydro technologies and a new REFIT Scheme covering biomass technology categories.

The Commission is currently completing assessments of the applications and I am advised that decisions should be forthcoming in the coming weeks.

On receipt of the Commission's decisions I will be seeking the Government's approval to proceed to open the Schemes to applications.