The launch of the Energy and Farm Diversification Show (formerly the Energy in Agriculture Show) took place in Dublin, today, Tuesday 23 May, 2023. In attendance was the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Charlie McConalogue TD, as well as representatives from the show’s organising committee and main sponsors.
The 2023 show will take place at Gurteen College on Thursday, the 20th of July 2023 and promises once again to be a highly informative, interactive and practical day for farmers and stakeholders interested in exploring energy production, alternative land use and other farm business options.
Minister McConalogue said “I am delighted to be involved in this hugely important event again and it comes just a few months since I launched the Targeted Agricultural Modernisation Scheme (TAMS 3) which has the strongest ever focus on renewables and solar. Grants of 60% with an investment ceiling of €90,000 are available under TAMS for farmers interested in solar panels and storage. We are also stepping up our ambitions around on-farm anaerobic digestion.’
Minister McConalogue further added “We are entering a new phase of energy generation for the country and farm-level energy will play a massive role in that. I know farmers will be very interested in that space. Be that on-farm or nationally, self-sufficiency in terms of energy generation is what we need to move towards.”
This innovative event is a collaboration between Teagasc, Tipperary County Council, Irish Farmers Association, Tipperary Energy Agency, Macra Na Feirme, Gurteen College and TUS Midlands Midwest. Barry Caslin, Teagasc Energy and Rural Development Specialist said: “If the ambitions of the Government’s Climate Action Plan are to be delivered, farm-scale and community-based renewables must be the central part of future energy policy in Ireland. The next few years will see a dramatic uptake in renewable energy generation on farms. There is a huge appetite for information from farmers who are planning to set up or expand diversification enterprises. This energy and diversification event will provide guidance and ideas for the agricultural and rural communities on the generation of renewable energy, effective energy and carbon management, business development through diversification and low-carbon farming options”.
Paul O Brien IFA National Environmental Chair said “IFA are pleased to be involved in what is now known as the Energy and Farm Diversification Show. At a time of much uncertainty in farming and the need to make agriculture more sustainable such an event is very important. It will be good to see what practical options may be available for farmers who wish to future proof their business from ever fluctuating energy costs and also assess what diversification options may be available if this is a route they are considering.”
The one day show incorporates a large trade exhibitor showcase, outdoor practical demonstrations, networking opportunities with industry experts and an extensive talks programme. The talks, which include several first-hand accounts from farmers, are split into three distinct streams: Energy in Agriculture, Smart Climate Land Use and Farm Business Diversification.
The show is sponsored by AXA Farm Insurance as show title sponsor, The Department of Agriculture Food and the Marine and FBD. Christy Doherty of AXA said “AXA are delighted to put our name to the Energy & Farm Diversification Show which has quickly become the must attend annual event for farmers and landowners interested in exploring energy, food and tourism options for their enterprise”.
Source: EMM/ The Agriculture and Food Development Authority