Call for Mayo lakes study to generate hydroelectric power

A Mayo Oireachtas member has called for a study of lakes and other waterways in the county where hydroelectric power could be generated.

Senator Paddy Burke said it could power public lighting in town and villages.

He elaborated: “In my own town of Castlebar, there are three connected lakes that come right into the town.

“We could put in a weir to produce that type of energy if the OPW and the local authority were to come together. It could be done as a pilot project.

“There are many such opportunities throughout the length and breadth of the country that could be looked at but the departments, the local authority and the OPW all act too slowly.”