27 October 2008
NIFDA has pledged its support for the proposed Rose Energy biomass power plant, a project which could save the Northern Ireland taxpayer millions of pounds.
THE Northern Ireland Food & Drink Association (NIFDA) has pledged its support for the proposed Rose Energy biomass power plant, a project which could save the Northern Ireland taxpayer millions of pounds.
The Rose Energy consortium - O’Kane Poultry, Moy Park Ltd and Glenfarm Holdings - has submitted a project proposal to build a 30MW power station to deal with the vast quantities of poultry litter produced by the local industry.
The proposed £100m power plant would deliver up to a third of Northern Ireland's renewable energy obligations by using agricultural biomass as an energy source.
The plant will also comply with the EU Nitrates Directive restrictions on the amount of agricultural manures which can be spread on farmland. Violation of this legislation could cost the Northern Ireland taxpayer fines of €50,000 per day.
Michael Bell, Executive Director of NIFDA, the trade body which represents the food and drink manufacturers of Northern Ireland, said the poultry industry is at the "heart" of the local economy and must be protected from closure.
“The agri-food industry is the heart of the Northern Ireland’s economy, employing around 80,000 people and with an output of over £2.7 billion", he said.
"The poultry industry within Northern Ireland employs over 7,000 people, and it is vital that we develop industry in a sustainable manner.
"The clean green Island is the foundation of our Food Industry and we will protect and maintain it".
NIFDA works closely with the farming industry on many issues and is well aware of the professional companies involved in the Rose Energy consortium.
Michael said that using the poultry bedding as a biomass fuel would offer a viable solution to maintaining our environment as well as providing renewable energy.
He added: “Given that the plant would be using world class proven technology, and be headed up by a very experienced management team, I believe the proposals are very sound.
"I understand that the planning application is currently under consideration by the Planning Service and hope that for the sake of the industry, a positive decision is reached very soon".