I move:
That leave be granted to introduce a Bill entitled an Act to require the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications to develop and publish a strategy to ensure that surplus renewable energy is utilised effectively, specifically for the benefit of people experiencing energy poverty, and to set targets for the utilisation of surplus renewable energy.
I am introducing this Bill as a proposal that reflects the strategic approach to energy management and a moral commitment to those living in energy poverty. I note the work of the Minister of State, Deputy Christopher O'Sullivan, who drafted this Bill with me. I am sure he will be a continuing ally of its principles now that he serves in government.
In recent years, Ireland has made incredible strides in renewable energy. We have harnessed the power of wind, making our country an emerging leader in clean energy production. What is the use of all of that progress, however, if significant portions of that renewable energy - energy that could otherwise heat homes and provide power - is simply thrown away each evening when there is low demand in the grid?
Since 2017, an estimated €1.95 billion worth of renewable energy has been dumped. This could have heated more than 2 billion hot water tanks. Last year alone, more than €420 million worth of wind energy was effectively earthed. This is enough to provide real relief for thousands of families struggling to keep their homes warm. At the same time, more than 550,000 households live in energy poverty. This is more than one million people - children, pensioners and working families, who are forced to choose between heating their homes and their essential needs. This Bill is simple. It offers a transformative solution to put surplus energy to use. It mandates the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications to develop and publish strategy within six months, a plan with clear, timebound targets for redirecting surplus energy to those who are most in need.
By 2026, at least 20% of this energy should be used to alleviate energy poverty and that percentage should increase to 50% by 2030. This approach will ensure that our renewable energy sector will continue to grow. Its real benefits will be felt in boardrooms and Government reports, but also in the homes of the families who need it.
The Bill does not demand expensive new infrastructure. The technology and the models already exist. In fact, initiatives are under way right now in Ireland, such as EnergyCloud, which demonstrate the feasibility of using surplus wind energy to heat water for families in need. This project, led by forward-thinking organisations, has already provided free hot water tanks on more than 100 nights in the past year to struggling families. Imagine what we could achieve with a national strategy with the full backing of the Government.
This Bill does not increase costs for businesses or consumers. It does not interfere with the market or add to the burden of the taxpayer. Instead, it simply ensures that we use what we are already generating, but is currently going to waste, to improve lives. Let us recognise the opportunity here. Ireland has the chance to lead the world in how we use renewable energy to tackle energy poverty. We have a chance to set an example to show that a fairer, more sustainable energy future is possible but we must act. Energy waste is increasing year on year and every day that passes without a strategy is a day when families struggle while clean energy is being thrown away. We cannot allow this to continue. I urge all Members of the House, across all parties and none, to support the Bill. Let us turn surplus into support, waste into warmth and policy into progress.
