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Energy Resources

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 29 November 2012

Thursday, 29 November 2012

Questions (153)

Bernard Durkan

Question:

153. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the degree to which this country’s dependency on imported fuel/energy sources has changed in relation to its reliance on imported fuels; the extent to which this has developed over the past five years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53584/12]

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Written answers

The Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) released its latest Energy in Ireland report on Tuesday November 27th. This shows that Ireland’s overall energy import dependency reached 90% in 2006 but has decreased to 88% in 2011. The SEAI report highlights that a number of factors influence this trend, including reduced production of domestic gas and peat. However, in recent years Ireland has begun to harness significant quantities of renewable resources. In 2011, renewable energy grew by 24% to represent 6.4% of Ireland’s gross final energy use.

Energy policy objectives for Ireland and the European Union are delivering security of supply and reducing the impact of energy costs for consumers and business through the development of renewable energy resources, enhanced energy efficiency and greater competition. National and EU energy policy objectives are also informed by the vital work of the IEA on all aspects of energy supply.

Ireland, however, remains critically dependent on imported fossil fuels, particularly oil and natural gas, which are subject to price volatility and geopolitical risks. This dependency underlines the immediate and long term imperatives of enhancing energy security and moving to more sustainable forms of energy. It is also critical for climate change targets. The Government is also committed to continuing and enhancing the delivery of significant energy efficiency improvements across the commercial, public and private sector. Energy efficiency will progressively reduce Ireland’s dependence on imported fossil fuels, while supporting energy competitiveness and security as well as employment and economic activity and reducing emissions.

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