Back in 1973, there were few other choices than oil to keep the wheels of industry and transport turning. Since his return to office in January 2025, US president Donald Trump has worked hard to repay his fossil fuel industry sponsors. Second, the hyper-volatility of fossil fuel prices make them a lousy long term economic bet, and give real momentum to concerted efforts to finally break our addiction to these deadly substances. Even in Ireland, solar is hugely valuable. The carbon tax is vital in helping us transition away from fossil fuel dependence by funding home retrofits and tackling energy poverty.

Source: Irish Examiner March 12, 2026 01:17 UTC