COMHAIRLE CONTAE ÁTHA CLIATH THEAS
SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL

south dublin county council crest

MEETING OF DEVELOPMENT PLAN MEETING

Monday, April 20, 2009

MOTION NO.35

MOTION: Councillor R. Dowds

Chapter 7 - Infrastructure

That this Council supports and prioritises the development of indigenous, renewable energy resources within South County Dublin. In this context, the new County Development Plan should include an objective for the exploitation of the deep geothermal heat resources available at Newcastle, confirmed as one of the most significant indigenous renewable energy resources that exists in the Greater Dublin area. The exploitation of this natural energy resource should be carried out in the first instance as a pilot project in association with the development of a new sustainable energy efficient community. The development of this energy resource will facilitate the future growth of Newcastle and other areas of the County in a sustainable manner. This pilot project will give a practical expression to section 7.24.4 of the existing Development Plan (2004-2010) regarding renewable energy by identifying Newcastle, or another appropriate area, as a suitable location. In addition, it will demonstrate to employers and potential employers that this County is committed to providing sustainable and renewable energy solutions to industry, thereby attracting new job opportunities to South Dublin.

REPORT:

It is considered appropriate that all potential sources of renewable energy in the County be examined in the interest of sustainability, and that Development Plan policies should promote and facilitate the sustainable development of such resources.

There are a number of potential locations for the possible development of deep geothermal heat resources identified in the County, all of  which need to be examined to identify the most sustainable option.

 Manager’s Recommendation:

It is recommended that the motion be adopted with amendments as follows:

“That this Council supports and prioritises the development of indigenous, renewable energy resources within South County Dublin, and that all potential sources of renewable energy in the county, including deep geothermal heat resources identified in the County, be examined as part of an overall policy to be included in the Draft Development Plan.”