Ireland to Provide Fuel Support to Farmers by June End; 130+ EV Buses Idle
Irish farmers and contractors will receive fuel support payments by June end, offering a €274 cut per 1,000 litres of green diesel. This addresses Ireland's road transport reliance, but energy grants are inequitable. Meanwhile, over 130 State-funded electric buses remain idle for 18+ months due to charging infrastructure delays, causing depreciation.
Farmers and agricultural contractors in Ireland will receive fuel support payments by the end of June as part of a government scheme following recent protests. This package, combined with previous excise cuts, will result in an effective cut of €274 per 1,000 litres of green diesel.
Professor Brian Caulfield of Transportation noted these cuts are essential due to Ireland's high reliance on road transport, having the lowest rail freight in the EU at under 3%. He also highlighted inequities in energy grants, stating that wealthier regions benefit most, while rural areas lack public transport alternatives for decarbonisation.
Separately, over 130 State-funded electric double-decker buses have been idle for more than 18 months due to a lack of charging infrastructure. Planning permission and tendering delays are preventing charger installation. Prof. Caulfield warned that these buses are depreciating, becoming less valuable as newer models offer extended ranges exceeding 700 km, compared to their 300-500 km range.