A new scheme to be launched this morning aims to increases Ireland’s renewable energy capacity by 30% in the next three years.

The environment Minister Richard Bruton said the scheme is part of the push to generate 70% of Ireland energy through renewables by 2030.

The scheme will see renewable electricity projects invited to bid for capacity and receive a guaranteed price for the electricity they generate.

It aims to increase the diversity of technology within the renewable sector to enhance the security of supply.

Minister Bruton said Ireland is “currently 86% reliant on fossil fuel.”

“We must radically reduce this dependence and make the transition to cleaner, more renewable energy,” he said.

“We are exiting from peat and coal to generate electricity and moving to clean, renewable sources of power, like wind and solar.

“The Renewable Energy Support Scheme is a flagship Government policy designed to deliver on our commitments to decarbonise our electricity grid, harness our natural resources and bring renewable energy into the heart of our communities.”

He said all project developers will be obliged to contribute to a Community Benefit Fund for communities living close to renewable projects.

The projects must also provide Irish citizens with investment opportunities.