The global ‘trilemma’ on how to provide sustainable, stable and cost effective carbon-neutral energy is also a real challenge for Ireland. The EU has a 20% energy savings target through use of renewables such as wind, solar, wave and biomass by 2020, and recently updated to a new 30% energy efficiency target by 2030. Member states, including Ireland, may face significant financial penalties if the EU targets are not met. The International Energy Research Centre (IERC) is bringing together global experts along with indigenous startups, industry leaders, researchers and government representatives on Thursday 30 March at Fota Island Resort to discuss “Industry Driven Innovation: Realising Future Energy Systems”.
Speaking at the IERC Conference launch, Prof. Tony Day, Executive Director of IERC said, “At the IERC, we are focused on a collaborative approach which brings together all relevant parties to accelerate progress in the area of renewable energy. Government, industry, analysts, academics and researchers from across the globe will convene in Cork, with the agenda addressing the development of technologies to integrate energy sources, energy provision and ultimately usage by industry and consumers.”