I call for a debate on how sustainable energy projects are planned and the need to involve local communities much earlier in the process. People understand that we need more renewable energy, we need cleaner energy, lower emissions and greater energy independence so that Ireland can reduce its reliance on imported energy and bring down energy costs in the long run but too often communities only hear about major projects when plans are already far advanced. At that stage people feel that decisions already been made and that their concerns are not being heard. When that happens, trust breaks down and communities feel they have no choice but to fight projects in their area. This is something we are hearing of more and more in every community across the country. It is not right and it is something we need to have a discussion about.

If we want the public to support renewable energy projects, people must be included from the very start. Communities should be given clear information about what is being planned, how it could affect their area and what benefits there may be for local people. An important aspect is bringing communities to see similar projects in other areas because half of the problem is misinformation and scaremongering, rather than actually seeing the positive impact of some of these facilities on communities.

We need to improve access and funding for solar grants for both domestic houses and businesses because that is the easiest thing we have. Rather than waiting for the expansion of the national grid and some of the big infrastructural projects we need, the low-hanging fruit is doing that on domestic houses and businesses and giving our households and businesses the opportunity to reduce their own energy bills at the moment. It would be a topical and timely debate and I would welcome the opportunity to have it as soon as possible.