Science Today: Why the answer could be blowing in the wind - Wind power could help the Republic to meet its greenhouse-gas emission targets, and research is underway at UCC to achieve this goal, writes Emma Napper.

(From The Irish Times)

You only have to stand on the coast of Clare in April to know how much wind there is in Ireland. The wind is an ideal source of renewable energy and will become increasingly important for providing power for our businesses and homes.

By converting to wind energy, we will be able to cut the amount of carbon dioxide gas released into the atmosphere, which is currently estimated to be around 45 million tonnes a year. Generating our own electricity using renewable sources will also help to release the Republic from its dependence on imported oil. Its supply and price remain beyond our direct control, barring the discovery of fresh offshore …