Speaking at Bioenergy 07, Teagasc Head of Forestry Nuala Ni Fhlatharta said: "There are 620,000 hectares of forestry in Ireland and the new emerging wood energy market is providing an important outlet for thinnings from these forests. While replacing imported fossil fuels, the increased use of wood chip, wood pellet, and log burners and boilers is providing an opportunity to add value to locally produced raw material from farm forests. It also ensures that farm forests will be thinned. This is a win - win situation at local level and will help ensure that farmers can maximise their income from sawlog and other end uses."

Bioenergy 07 took place in Oak Park, Carlow and was organised jointly by COFORD, Sustainable Energy Ireland and Teagasc. A full range of wood processing equipment was demonstrated, while the latest and most efficient stoves for domestic and commercial use were highlighted.

Nuala Ni Fhlatharta added: "The development of the bioenergy market also provides another important incentive for farmers to plant new forests. There are already attractive afforestation schemes such as the FEPS scheme in place to encourage environmentally friendly forestry and provide an annual income of over ?750 per hectare, but the development of these new markets for wood energy makes the forestry option even more attractive. It also allows farmers to produce their own fuel for the future, helping to buffer them against any further increases in oil prices."

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