Renewable Heat Incentive

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 19 October 2017

Thursday, 19 October 2017

Questions (184)

Timmy Dooley

Question:

184. Deputy Timmy Dooley asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the deadline by which the renewable heat incentive scheme will be launched. [44324/17]

Written answers

Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment

The proposed Renewable Heat Incentive addresses key objectives  set out in the National Mitigation Plan, the Energy White Paper and the Programme for Government. The development of the scheme has involved detailed economic analysis, extensive engagement with industry and two public consultations.

  In Budget 2018, €7m was allocated for the proposed Renewable Heat Incentive. I intend to seek Government approval to the scheme  in the coming weeks.  European Commission State Aid approval will also be required in advance of the scheme commencing operation.

Although there is no set deadline for the implementation of the Renewable Heat Incentive, I expect the scheme to come into operation in 2018.