More wind energy is needed in Ireland to create sustainable ways of heating homes and making fuel.
A new report has recommended the creation of a National Floating Offshore Wind development agency.
The Shannon Estuary has been identified as one such area where an off shore wind farm could be placed.
Energy Minister Eamon Ryan says it's the way forward:
"It's about turning to the Atlantic and turning to wind power. If we were to focus on the things that might divide people, we wouldn't inform our people. This is a huge opportunity for the West. It's a huge opportunity for Clare and Limerick and Kerry particularly. It's a chance to turn that power into jobs, and also to turn it into transport solutions".
Environmental Journalist John Gibbons says Ireland could become completely energy independent:
"We have among the best sustained wind quality anywhere in Europe and among the best in the world. And our offshore territories are more than seven times the size of the island of Ireland. So there's a massive opportunity here for Ireland to really transform away from decades of dependence on imported fossil fuels. And for Ireland's for the first time to become both energy independent and also a major exporter of clean, renewable energy".
