Between 5,000 and 10,000 new jobs each year could be generated by a five-year sustainable energy strategy in Ireland.

This is according to the country's Green Party, which has asserted that the strategic plan will transform the nation into a greener economy and drive forward innovation.

Unveiled by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SAEI), the plans are expected to deliver €6 billion worth of savings over the five years and create "a society based on sustainable energy structures, technologies and practices".

Thousands of engineering jobs in Ireland may be created by the strategy, Green Party spokesperson on communications, energy and natural resources Eamon Ryan predicted, adding that the scheme will also lower bills for businesses and consumers.

"It will bring investment and most importantly jobs for our people," he declared.

"SEAI's mission for the future is truly transformational."

In recent comments made to the Irish Times, Irish Business and Employers Confederation policy executive Alan O'Kelly suggested that companies are providing graduates with an important chance to gain experience by offering them work placements.