Mayo has been identified as having several locations suitable for the construction of a hydro storage reservoir which will form part of a breakthrough national natural energy project which has been launched by the Spirit of Ireland Group. New and existing wind farm facilities in Mayo will also form an important part of the plan.
An estimated €10 billion will be injected into the Irish economy over the next five years as Ireland works towards energy independence resulting in thousands of secure jobs locally in industries supporting wind energy. The plan will also bring increased incomes for farmers and land owners who participate in the project and will result in reduced energy costs for homes, businesses, hospitals, schools, nursing homes, and social facilities in Mayo. There is also a distinct opportunity to create eco tourism, and other businesses associated with environmental businesses and services will bring even more possible jobs and revenue to the county.
Graham O’Donnell, electrical engineer and spokesperson for Spirit of Ireland, is asking people in Mayo to now consider the role that we can all play in improving the state of our nation. “We want to get people talking about this initiative and realising that there is much we can do to determine our future,” he said. “We must decide, as a nation, if we want to take this route to prosperity. We can be the controllers of our country’s financial and environmental destiny. If people want to have their say, we want to hear them. The purpose of the national press campaign is to actively encourage the public to register their opinion at www.spiritofireland.org ”
