Alternate energy is gaining popularity the world over. People are looking for innovative ways to reduce their energy bills. The traditional energy sources are becoming more and more expensive. In Europe as well as in Ireland, alternate energy is becoming more accessible and affordable than ever before. Ireland has realized the importance of energy independence in furthering their economy and is actively pursuing R&D in renewable resources. Currently, Ireland imports 90% of its energy needs.

They are not comfortable with this acute level of energy dependence on other nations. Another reason for pursuing alternative energy is their wish to conserve the country's natural beauty and do-away with the effects of pollution by using alternative energy. A mandate has been issued by EU for all members to reduce sulphur oxide and nitric oxide emissions. This can only happen if the clean, alternative energy solutions are employed. Solar energy, wind energy, hydroelectric energy, wave energy and geothermal energy are being used here.

The alternative energy used in Ireland today is nationally sponsored. A program from Sustainable Energy Ireland (SEI), Greener Homes Scheme, assists people in adding alternative energy sources to their homes. SEI, formerly the Irish Energy Center, was set up by the Irish government in 2002 as Ireland's national energy agency. They are promoters and assisters to developing sustainable energy in Ireland and are devoted to increasing awareness and use of the number of Irish homes using renewable energy in five years. The Greener Homes Schemes also provide discounts for homes to install solar water and wood pellet heaters. There is less or no pollution using these energy sources. 

Ireland has resources which, if harnessed, can make it not only energy independent but a supplier as well to other countries in need. Its potential lies in exploring biomass producing, wave, wind and solar energies. The initial focus has to be on raising its capacity to produce energy so it can reduce the energy import from other nations. The current target set by the government is to generate 15% of the energy needs using wind farms reached by 2010. Some areas in Ireland are using hydroelectric power since 1930 and have found it very effective. This model can be followed and more such plants can be installed. A large amount of land resources are also becoming available for alternative energy uses like bio-energy production. Ireland also would do good  to use the wave energy of Atlantic Ocean on its west. This is a sizable energy supplythey have.

The other resources being pointed out by research institutions and universities is ocean's wave energy as holding a great promise. A test site has been setup two miles from the coast of County Galway Bay for developing this energy. This site is called 'Wavebob' and boasts very energetic waves. David Taylor is the CEO of SEI. He mentions SEI's commitment to innovating the alternative energy sector and points out wave energy as a promising alternative energy source to be further pursued reduce the country's dependence on fossil fuels. With this emerging technology to harness wave power, Ireland could lead the world market in this sector.

Alternative energy situation in Ireland has its good and bad sides. While there are initiatives to make Ireland more energy friendly, the government has not provided financial incentives to make the alternative energy attractive. It could take inspiration from other European countries to provide incentives to its people to take this road.