Minister Rabbitte announces 150 construction jobs in the Midlands.

Minister turns the sod on Bord na Mona’s Mount Lucas wind energy project, Biggest infrastructure project in Ireland in 2012 and 2013. Energy Minister, Pat Rabbitte, today announced the delivery of 150 construction jobs in a large wind energy project at Mount Lucas, east Offaly. He was speaking at the commencement of works on Bord na Móna’s €140 million investment that will see the construction of 30 high-spec turbines which will provide eco-friendly electricity for up to 50,000 Irish households.

“I congratulate Bord na Mona on its development of this key project, which will underpin the company’s diversification strategy, support Ireland’s energy policy objectives and demonstrate the potential which the Midlands has for the development of significant renewable energy projects.

“Today is a major step forward for the company as Mount Lucas represents a very substantial investment by Bord na Móna in the renewable sector. When completed, Mount Lucas will make a considerable contribution to achieving the balance required in Ireland’s energy mix.

“The need to reduce our dependence on imported fossil fuels through exploitation of our renewable and efficiency resources has never been greater. Here in Ireland we have an abundance of renewable energy, with particular potential in the onshore wind sector, and it is vital that we continue to exploit this potential.”

The Minister went on to highlight the importance of the Mount Lucas project in demonstrating the potential which the Midlands holds for the future generation of power for export to the UK energy market.