The minister said that given the importance of renewable sources of energy he is "delighted to support the provision of establishment grants for the growing of willow to produce Biomass."

The scheme builds on previous Bio-Energy Schemes and for 2015 will focus exclusively on the growing of willow. In response to submissions from the sector, the maximum area that can be planted has been substantially increased from 30 hectares to 50 hectares.

The new scheme will be wholly nationally funded.

The aid consists of a once-off capital grant up to 40% subject to a maximum of €1,040 per hectare to facilitate the establishment of willow for use in renewable energy production. The grant-aid will be paid in respect of the ground preparation, seed purchase and planting costs.

Details of the scheme are available on the Department’s website here and the minister urged those thinking of planting this spring to return their applications without delay.