Farmers have a massive role to play in Ireland’s evolving energy mix. They will have a part to play both in the production of biofuels and in increasing energy efficiency on farms.

This is according to Kevin McPartlan, CEO of the Irish Petroleum Industry Association (IPIA). The organisation represents companies in Ireland that import, distribute and market petroleum products.

Its membership represents about 95% of the oil industry in the Republic of Ireland, including Topaz, Applegreen, TOP, EMO and Maxol, to name a few.

Kevin explained that Ireland’s major fuel suppliers are very aware of their need to adapt to Ireland's changing energy demand.

“When 2050 comes and we’re net zero [carbon], these companies still want to be in business then,” Kevin explained.

In order to do this, these companies are looking at selling other liquid fuel such as advanced synthetic biofuels, hydrogen generated from renewable electricity, or rolling out more electric vehicle charging points.

This will also include working with farmers as both producers and users of energy, he said.

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