Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 27 November 2012
457. Deputy Marcella Corcoran Kennedy asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the reason the DS3 process launched in 2008 and in view of our obligations in the provision of wind energy has not proceeded; when we may expect the document from Éirgrid to be published which was expected June 2012. [52609/12]
View answerThe multi-year, multi-stakeholder programme for Delivering a Secure, Sustainable Electricity System (DS3) was launched by EirGrid in 2011. The DS3 programme is about developing solutions to the challenges associated with increasing levels of renewable generation, particularly with regard to secure power system operation, as we work to achieve the 2020 renewable targets.
The DS3 programme brings together many different strands, including development of financial incentives for better plant performance, and development of operational policies and system tools to use the portfolio to the best of its capabilities. Standards for wind farms and conventional plant are also being reviewed to give enhanced operational flexibility for the future.
A central aspect of the DS3 programme is the System Services Review. System Services are products, other than energy, that are required for the continuous, secure operation of the power system. The System Services Review is being carried out to identify the new system services that are needed to complement the transition towards a power system with high levels of wind generation. To date, two public consultations have been held related to System Services; a third public consultation is expected in the coming months. The exact timing of the consultation will be determined by the Single Electricity Market Committee (SEMC).
It is important to note that the DS3 programme involves a variety of different stakeholders, including the Distribution System Operators, Regulatory Authorities, Conventional Generators and Renewable Generators, as well as the TSOs.
