The conservation organisation highlighted this message to the Agriculture Committee today, stating that 'Government should recognise the benefits that renewable technologies can bring to rural communities in terms of business opportunities and provision of energy.'

It has asked MLAs to encourage the Department of Agriculture to look favourably on rural projects incorporating renewables. Many of these could reduce energy costs as well as develop alternative markets for farmers whilst helping the Assembly to meet environmental targets such as the reduction of carbon emissions.

WWF identified measures from the three Rural Development axes which have the potential to use funding for biomass and other renewable energy projects, in turn boosting the local industry and rural communities.

"The climate in Northern Ireland makes us well placed to make the most of wind technology or of the production of biomass. We have a real opportunity to work towards a low-carbon economy if funding is channelled in the right direction," said Alex McGarel, Policy Officer, WWF Northern Ireland.