Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 16 October 2018
545. Deputy Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment if the cost of an NC5 non-batch application will be removed; if the requirement for a planning application in order to make the application will be removed; and the guidelines and guidance on the costs of making the connection. [41963/18]
View answerThe management of connections to the electricity grid, including processes and connection charging rules, is a matter for EirGrid and ESB Networks under rules determined by the Commission for Regulation Utilities (CRU), which is an independent statutory body.
I understand that the CRU has been reviewing the existing grid connection policies to ensure that they are fit for purpose. Following on from a public consultation in November 2017, the CRU published its decision in March 2018 on a revised set of grid connection rules, the Enduring Connection Policy Stage 1 (ECP-1). ECP-1 constitutes the first step in revising the existing connection policy, allowing the first of a set of more regular batches of connection offers. As the system cannot, at present, accommodate all the projects seeking to connect, this decision first allows those ‘shovel ready’ projects (i.e. with planning permission) to get a connection offer, ahead of less mature projects. ECP 1 also prioritises connection of new, more flexible technologies able to provide specific system services currently required by the system operator and makes a number of other changes including a revised schedule of application fees.
On 31 August 2018 EirGrid and ESB Networks published the final list of applicants that meet the criteria to be processed as part of the first ‘batch’ of offers under ECP 1. It is expected that any future changes to connection rules will be consulted on by the CRU before any decisions are made.
