Written Answers Nos. 79-112
79. Deputy Bríd Smith asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment if the recent report from the climate change performance index, which ranked Ireland as the worst in climate action among European nations, will see a shift in policy, specifically if the climate emergency measures Bill will be supported and if the Government will cease issuing licences for fossil fuel exploration; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53175/18]
View answerThe challenge to reduce greenhouse gas emissions is well understood by Government and is reflected in national climate action and energy policy which seeks to balance the competing aspects of sustainability, competitiveness and security of supply. Ireland will, within the EU and UN climate frameworks, pursue and achieve a transition to a low-carbon, climate-resilient and environmentally sustainable economy, underpinned by a secure and competitive energy supply, in the period to 2050.
In recognition of this challenge Minister Bruton is currently preparing an All of Government Plan which will set out the actions which must be taken to make Ireland a leader in responding to climate change. It will have a strong focus on implementation, including clear timelines and steps needed to achieve each action, assigning clear lines of responsibility for delivery. This Plan will develop new initiatives across electricity, transport, heat, agriculture and other relevant sectors, building on the previous actions taken by Government, including in the National Mitigation Plan and the National Development Plan, and is to be completed early next year.
The government has made a clear commitment and plan to decarbonise as outlined in both the National Mitigation Plan and the Energy White Paper “Ireland's Transition to a Low Carbon Energy Future 2015-2030”. The government is opposed to the Climate Emergency Measures Bill, as it will do nothing to decrease greenhouse gas emissions and will make Ireland 100% dependent on imports for our fossil fuel needs in the future, when we know that Ireland’s indigenous production at Corrib will decline and the Kinsale gas field is approaching its end of life.
It is noted that the Climate Change Performance Index referred to ranks the UK as the 8th highest ranked country in the index and its oil and gas sector is not identified by the authors as a negative in its ranking, although it has a far more extensive oil and gas production and exploration sector than Ireland. Norway is also ranked as a “high performing country” in 12th position, although it has by far the largest oil and gas production and exploration sector in Europe.
80. Deputy Timmy Dooley asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the progress made on the application for EU funds to aid affected Bord na Móna workers in their transition into new employment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53180/18]
View answerI am acutely conscious of the impact of the recent redundancy announcement on Bord na Móna’s employees.
The challenge during this decade of transition out of peat is to continue to support those communities and jobs associated with the peat business and to identify and develop new opportunities for employment, particularly in the Midlands.
Bord na Móna is considering its options in relation to an application to the European Globalisation Fund (EGF) for assistance.
The Department of Education and Skills is the Managing Authority for the EGF in Ireland. It is responsible for preparing and submitting applications to the EGF, overseeing the roll-out of supports to eligible workers, preparing interim programme implementation reports and reporting to the European Commission on services and programmes supported by the EGF. I am advised that the Department of Education and Skills is monitoring developments following the recent announcement by Bord na Móna and is assessing the potential for an EGF application in consultation with the European Commission.
Bord na Móna has engaged directly with the Regions in Transition Initiative in Brussels, and has presented on its transition out of Energy peat to one of its recent meetings and is examining options for support of its new business ventures from a range of sources including the Regions in Transition Platform.
81. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the three most important actions he plans to take to address the issue of climate change and carbon reduction, including the development of the alternative energy sector incentivising the transport sector to change to renewable fuels; the extent to which the domestic transport sector can be influential in this; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53155/18]
View answerSince my appointment as Minister I have secured Government approval to prepare an All of Government Plan which will set out the actions which must be taken to make Ireland a leader in responding to climate change. I will work with colleagues across Government to develop new initiatives in electricity, transport, heat, agriculture and other relevant sectors. The new plan will have a strong focus on implementation, including actions with specific timelines and steps needed to achieve each action, assigning clear lines of responsibility for delivery. The new plan will also be informed by successful approaches in other countries, where such approaches could be adapted for implementation in Ireland.
This plan will build on existing initiatives taken by the Government, including the National Mitigation Plan, published in 2017, and the National Development Plan (NDP), published earlier this year. The NDP provides for almost €22 billion for climate action, with an additional €8.6 billion committed to sustainable mobility.
A number of steps have already been taken to promote the development of low carbon alternatives in the transport sector, including providing a comprehensive package of supports to promote the uptake of electric vehicles, increasing the rate of the biofuels obligation, and approving the first round of applications under the €500 million Climate Action Fund. This first round of Climate Action Fund projects included a strong transport element, with provision of up to €10 million to continue the rollout of the electric vehicle charging network and a further €8.5 million to support the development of renewable gas infrastructure and vehicles.
83. Deputy Brian Stanley asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment his plans to use powers under the Electricity Regulation Act 1999 to issue a policy direction to the Commission for Regulation of Utilities regarding energy supply markets and its resultant effect on prices for householders. [53129/18]
View answerSection 10A of the Electricity Regulation Act 1999, as amended, sets out the procedure under which I, as Minister, may give general policy directions to the Commission for Regulation of Utilities. The legislation sets out details on the tasks and inter-alia restrictions, timelines and consultation requirements with the independent regulator and Oireachtas.
Energy markets in Ireland operate within a European regulatory regime in which Member States must guarantee the independence of National Regulatory Authorities, which are expressly forbidden from taking direct instructions from government, or any public body. The regime also restricts policy directions in the form of general policy guidelines in certain areas that are prescribed regulatory duties and powers in the EU Third Energy Package.
Consistent with European energy policy, the electricity and gas markets in Ireland are commercial, liberalised, and competitive. The position of successive Governments has been that competitive energy markets result in greater choice for consumers and businesses, in terms of suppliers, products and prices. Competition exerts downward pressure on suppliers’ prices.
The regulation of retail market prices for electricity in Ireland ended in 2011 and for gas prices in 2014. The main thrust of Government policy on energy costs is focused on the competitive market and supports for energy efficiency. Government policy has supported competition to drive down prices, and data from approved price comparison sites (www.bonkers.ie and www.switcher.ie) shows that consumers can make significant savings by switching energy suppliers.
Recent announcements regarding electricity price increases largely reflect the pronounced increase in international natural gas prices over the last two years, with the average UK National Balancing Point day-ahead price having risen by almost 50% year on year in October 2018, according to BGE. Consistent with the upward international gas price trend, average wholesale electricity prices in Ireland have increased in like manner, and were more than 60% higher in October compared to 12 months earlier. The effect of this protracted rise in the wholesale electricity price over the last two years has also been observed in the retail market, with almost all Irish electricity suppliers having announced at least one household customer price increase during 2018.
85. Deputy Timmy Dooley asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the process to review decisions to close rural post offices undertaken by An Post; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53178/18]
View answerAn Post is a commercial State body with its own Board. Decisions relating to the post office network are an operational matter for An Post.
In the face of serious declines in the volume of mail and post office business, An Post faced growing losses and has had to undertake a major restructuring of its business in order to continue to be able to provide their valuable services.
In relation to post offices it has agreed an exit arrangement where postmasters choose to retire. It has established a protocol which sets out how the company would facilitate the continued provision of Post Office services where this occurs. Its aim is to make as many post offices as possible viable. It takes account of minimum service levels as well as a range of other issues.
I understand that An Post have also set up an appeals mechanism. In the case of 45 of 51 appeals the independent reviewer upheld the decision of An Post. In five cases An Post reconsidered their decision and re-advertised the contract, while in one case the postmaster withdrew their resignation.
A key element of An Post's Strategy is to develop new business lines. This includes parcel delivery and financial services including personal loans and more recently it is considering options in relation to mortgages. It has also committed to extending its opening times.
The Government is supporting An Post in the delivery of its €150m transformation programme. The Government provided a €30m loan to An Post to support the renewal of the post office network and the continued fulfilment of the 5 day per week delivery service.
Government funding of €80,000 has been allocated to a new Digital Assist scheme which is being piloted in 10 post offices, where post offices are kitted out to help citizens engage with Government services online.
We are also looking at options to deliver Government services to those citizens who don’t want to use, or are unable to use services online. The findings of this work may be of use to An Post in the longer term.
An Post continues to experience very significant declines in mail volumes and its traditional retail business but has managed to significantly strengthen its financial services and maintain a network of 960 post offices and 1600 post points.
86. Deputy Tom Neville asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment his plans to increase the level of plastic recycling and to reduce the use of non-recyclable plastics in particular. [53192/18]
View answerIreland has consistently exceeded the mandatory EU recycling target of 22.5% for plastic packaging waste. That said, new targets have been set by the EU which will oblige Member States to recycle 50% of plastic packaging waste by 2025 and 55% by 2030. This will be a challenge for Member States.
At EU level, the first-ever Europe-wide strategy on plastics has been adopted. The strategy envisages that all plastic packaging on the EU market will be recyclable by 2030 and that the consumption of single-use plastics will be reduced. The strategy is underpinned by a proposed directive for the reduction of the impact of certain plastic products on the environment. I am working closely with the Commission and other Member States on the development of this proposal. Once finalised, this proposal will enable me to introduce concrete measures to reduce, and in some cases, ban the use of single use plastics.
I am also working closely with Repak, the Producer Responsibility Scheme for Packaging in Ireland. REPAK members, including all the major retailers, have pledged to support Ireland in delivering the new plastic targets by:
- Minimising avoidable single use packaging and promoting packaging reuse where possible.
- Eliminating non-recyclable components in all plastic packaging by 2030.
- Increasing the use of plastic packaging with a recycled content.
87. Deputy Brian Stanley asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the position regarding changes to the An Post retail and mail delivery businesses in the context of the retention of the universal social obligation. [53130/18]
View answerAn Post is a commercial State company with a mandate to deliver a postal delivery service and viable post office network. It is also designated as the sole universal service provider under the Communications Regulation (Postal Services) Act 2011, which requires it to, among other things, fulfil the universal service obligation of a 5 day per week delivery service. As Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment, I have responsibility for the governance of An Post, ensuring the company is fully compliant with the 2016 Code of Practice for the Governance of State Bodies and the governance functions included in the statutory framework underpinning An Post.
Operational matters and the role of developing and implementing commercial strategies for An Post mails and retail businesses are matters for the board and management of An Post and I, as Minister, have no statutory function in relation to such issues.
An Post is continuing to make good progress in implementing its strategic plan, which will see a range of developments across the mails and retail businesses. A €30m loan was provided by the Government to An Post to support the required transformation programme, to ensure the continued delivery of the universal service obligation to deliver post to every address every working day, which is a European Union requirement, and to support a nationwide post office network.
88. Deputy Thomas Byrne asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment his policy on the North-South interconnector. [53183/18]
View answer527. Deputy Thomas Byrne asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the status of the North-South interconnector. [52796/18]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 88 and 527 together.
The single electricity market for the island of Ireland has brought many economic and social benefits, both north and south.
The enduring success of the single electricity market depends critically on the degree of interconnection. Currently just 300MW of electricity supply across the existing north south interconnector is permitted so as to ensure that electricity is securely provided to customers. The new north south interconnector will facilitate substantial increases in capacity transfers, thereby facilitating a more effective single electricity market.
Interconnection helps ensure that only the most efficient and low carbon generation is brought onto the grid. The interconnector also substantially increases the capacity to connect up to an estimated 900 MW of renewables to our grid. Currently 30% of our electricity comes from renewables but as part of our strategy to meet our climate commitments we need to almost double that proportion.
The North South interconnector has been subject to economic analysis and the benefit to cost ratio is very positive. The interconnector is expected to bring savings in the single electricity market of €20 million per annum from its inception, rising to between €40 million and €60 million per annum by 2030. Much of these savings result from reductions in network constraints that will accrue from its delivery.
The project has received planning consent in Ireland and Northern Ireland; however, these decisions are the subject of ongoing legal challenges in both jurisdictions. The development of the interconnector including associated procurement activities is an operational matter for EirGrid and ESB Networks.
The Generation Capacity Statement (GCS) 2018 covers both Northern Ireland and Ireland, and is produced jointly between the System Operator for Northern Ireland and EirGrid. This is in line with their regulatory requirements to publish forecast information about the power system including an assessment of the balance between supply and demand. The Generation Capacity Statement is updated annually to ensure adequate capacity is available in the market on an all-island basis and to plan accordingly.
I am advised that the increase in generation capacity as shown in the Generation Capacity Statement published by the Transmission System Operators does not impact on the need for the interconnector. It is also important to note that the increase in Northern Ireland generation capacity shown is likely to be temporary in nature. The main increase is from the assumed continued availability of the coal fired Kilroot generating units and two of the older less efficient Ballylumford units. The long term continued operation of these generators is not sustainable in the context of decarbonisation of the industry.
In fact since the Generation Capacity Statement was published, the Utility Regulator for Northern Ireland granted derogation requests on 9 November to AES for the two Ballylumford units, totalling 250MW, from the requirement to give three years' notice of closure.
90. Deputy Martin Heydon asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment his views on the role that increasing energy efficiency in public, private and commercial buildings can play in reaching Ireland's climate commitments; the steps he will take to increase energy efficiency; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53158/18]
View answerEnergy efficiency has a crucial role to play in Ireland meeting its national and international climate commitments. Efforts to improve energy efficiency also make an essential contribution to improving Ireland’s security of supply, sustainability, air quality, health, social inclusion, business competitiveness and better public services, all of which will make a real and positive impact on people’s lives.
Buildings are responsible for nearly 35% of Ireland’s energy usage while Ireland’s homes emit nearly 60% more CO2 and use 7% more energy than the European average. This is a clear opportunity to improve the condition of our homes and businesses, while also contributing to climate action.
In 2018 97,000 tonnes of carbon were avoided across the country through government funded energy efficiency schemes targeted at homes, businesses and public sector buildings.
Over 400,000 homeowners have already taken action through Government grant schemes to upgrade their homes and these schemes are currently available to all homeowners who want to reduce their own energy usage and emissions.
Nearly 400 businesses have also availed of Government funding and support to reduce their energy usage in the past 2 years through the EXEED programme and schemes targeted at SMEs and dairy farmers. 200 of Ireland's larger energy users have improved their overall energy performance by 5.4% in 2017 relative to 2016 through the Large Industry Energy Network.
The public sector has achieved a 24% improvement in energy efficiency since 2009 with a target of 33% by 2020. This amounts to an avoided energy spend of over €1 billion (€1,024 million) and 3.56 million tonnes of carbon emission savings to end 2017. Further significant progress can be made in this sector.
I have recently secured Government approval to prepare an All of Government Plan and in developing this I will be looking at how we can further step up our activity in this area.
93. Deputy Brian Stanley asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the way in which indigenous biomass supply to maintain security of energy supply will be ensured in view of plans to convert peat plants to the use of biomass. [53127/18]
View answerThe three peat-fired electricity generating stations in Ireland, one owned by Bord na Móna and two by ESB, were awarded support for biomass combustion under the REFIT3 Scheme for up to 30% of the installed capacity up to 2030. Bord na Móna commenced co-firing with biomass in 2008, and it is expected that ESB will commence co-firing with biomass in 2020.
ESB is in the process of seeking planning permission for the phased transition of its stations to biomass by the end of 2027. Bord na Móna currently has planning permission to co-fire with up to 30% biomass.
In relation to the supply of biomass, Bord na Móna’s BioEnergy division sources sustainable biomass that is used at the Edenderry power station. The sourcing and supply of this biomass is based on a set of sustainability principles aligned to UN Sustainable Development Goals. This ensures that the biomass used in electricity generation is from sustainable sources. Up to 80% of the biomass used in the Edenderry power station is from domestic sources.
In addition to the Edenderry power station, there is demand for biomass for use in industry and in residential heating, and the Government’s Support Scheme for Renewable Heat will also create a demand for biomass supplies in the coming years.
Based on current estimates, there is unlikely to be adequate supplies of indigenous biomass available in the short-term to supply all three power stations. Therefore, the importation of biomass will be required. As the supply of indigenous biomass increases, supported by the forestry programme and other measures, imported biomass will be displaced.
95. Deputy Catherine Martin asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment his plans in respect of offshore wind energy; the number of offshore wind farms that are planned; the planned locations of these wind farms; the projected cost of same; his further plans to increase the capacity in this area over the next decade; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53164/18]
View answerMy Department published, in 2014, the Offshore Renewable Energy Development Plan (OREDP) which set out policy for the sustainable development of our abundant offshore renewable energy resources. An interim review of the OREDP was published in May and is available on my Department’s website: www.dccae.gov.ie. The Offshore Renewable Energy Steering Group, which oversees the implementation of the OREDP, is progressing the recommendations of the review and continuing the work of implementing the actions and enablers set out in the Plan.
My Department has also developed the new Renewable Electricity Support Scheme (RESS), which was approved by Government in July 2018, and it is expected that the first renewable electricity auctions will take place under RESS in 2019. The economic appraisal undertaken for RESS involved comparing the cost of supporting a range of commercial renewable technologies, including offshore wind, to ensure that the new scheme delivers value for money for energy users whilst also delivering on the energy pillars of sustainability and security of supply. Technology diversity will occur naturally as the scheme matures and certain intervention levers may be used within each auction round to promote certain policy objectives such as community participation, community ownership and diversifying the renewable energy mix.
The RESS has been designed to deliver Ireland’s contribution towards an EU-wide renewable energy target of 32% out to 2030, within a competitive auction-based, cost effective framework. The scheme will provide for a renewable electricity (RES-E) ambition of 55% by 2030. Furthermore, the National Development Plan will support Ireland’s offshore renewable energy potential through upgrading domestic and international grid connectivity.
I have secured Government approval to develop an all of Government plan which will set out the actions which must be taken to make Ireland a leader in responding to climate change. I will work with colleagues across Government to develop new initiatives across electricity, transport and heat, as well as a range of other sectors.
The Marine Coordination Group (MCG) decided over the summer to establish a Marine Legislation Steering Group, chaired by the Department of an Taoiseach, to progress legislative priorities in the marine area, including the Maritime Area and Foreshore Amendment Bill, being led by the Department of Housing, Planning and Local Government. The Bill, when enacted, will provide for a regime to regulate certain activities in areas beyond the foreshore.
96. Deputy Martin Heydon asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the status of the task force on broadband and mobile phone coverage with specific reference to the way in which mobile phone coverage in blackspots will be improved nationally; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53162/18]
View answerThe Mobile Phone and Broadband Taskforce worked with key stakeholders to produce a report in December 2016, available on my Department’s website, which contained 40 actions to alleviate some of the coverage deficits across the country. An Implementation Group is overseeing the implementation of the actions and comprises all key stakeholders responsible for delivery. The Implementation Group meets on a quarterly basis and publishes quarterly progress reports on the implementation status of actions.
My Department and the Department of Rural and Community Development published the Mobile Phone and Broadband Taskforce Implementation Review 2017 on 21 February 2018, which comprehensively outlines the progress made in 2017 on the actions identified by the Taskforce. Of the 40 actions, 29 have been completed, with work on the remaining 11 carrying into the 2018 Work Programme. Following close engagement with stakeholders at the inaugural National Stakeholder Forum 2017, an additional 23 new measures were identified for delivery in 2018.
The Quarter 3 Progress Report for 2018 will be published shortly.
Some of the Taskforce’s achievements to date include:
- My Department and the Department of Rural and Community Development have worked to achieve a greater consensus around site selection for telecoms infrastructure and therefore improve mobile phone coverage.
- Both Departments also worked with a pilot group of local authorities to identify the issues associated with mapping local blackspots. This pilot exercise has been completed, with all local authorities having been asked to map local blackspots and identify infrastructure that could potentially be used to provide additional coverage on an economic basis.
- A focus group was established to provide guidance with respect to categories of location where high quality reliable mobile coverage should be made available as a priority. The report of the focus group was published on my Department’s website on 31 August 2018. It is anticipated that the output of the focus group should influence the actions of the mobile network operators in their work to reduce mobile phone blackspots. It will also inform future policy in my Department with regards to priorities for mobile phone services.
- A working group has been established with the remit of investigating the feasibility of developing standardised policy for accessing and utilising State and publicly-owned assets for the deployment of telecommunications infrastructure.
- ComReg is delivering a composite national coverage map, which will, in tandem with its work on handset testing and activities to raise consumer awareness, allow people across Ireland to optimise the services available to them.
- ComReg has developed a licensing scheme which will enable households and businesses to use mobile phone repeaters to boost signals into their premises and bring immediate improvements in mobile coverage.
In tandem with the work of the Taskforce, the release by ComReg of the 3.6GHz radio spectrum band, which has been identified at EU level as a primary band suitable for 5G rollout, will also contribute to addressing increasing mobile data demands and improve mobile coverage. Mobile operators’ commercial investment has also resulted in improved services, following ComReg's 2012 multi-band spectrum auction. At least one operator now has in excess of 90% 4G population coverage.
All of these initiatives should help enhance the quality of mobile phone and data services, particularly in rural areas.
97. Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the number of premises passed by a company (details supplied) to date as part of the agreement with his Department for the roll-out of rural broadband to 300,000 premises; the number of domestic and business customers that have taken a subscription for this service to date; if he is satisfied with the update to date; the action he plans to take to encourage a higher uptake of this available rural broadband; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52792/18]
View answereir reports data to my Department in relation its ongoing rural fibre deployment in accordance with the Commitment Agreement signed with my Department in April 2017. This deployment was originally anticipated to be completed by the end of 2018. eir has indicated that its deployment schedule has been impacted by storms Emma and Ophelia, and other construction issues. The company has proposed new timelines for its deployment which would see the project completed by mid-2019. Officials from my Department are engaged on an on-going basis with eir on this proposal. According to Quarter 3 2018 figures provided by eir to my Department, the company has passed almost 210,000 premises as part of its ongoing deployment.
My Department receives take up figures on a monthly basis from eir, and I understand that take up is in line with the trajectory anticipated by eir when it commenced this commercial investment, and that the rate of take up along eir's 300k deployment has increased throughout 2018. This increase in take up is expected to continue as eir proceeds to pass and connect further premises every month, as awareness of the availability of high speed broadband improves and as more retail service providers offer a choice and variety of communications packages over the network. My Department does not receive a breakdown of figures between domestic and business customers.
eir’s rural investment in high speed broadband is an entirely commercial undertaking, and while it is reflective of the overall national deployment figures for the delivery of high speed broadband throughout the country, it is not part of the planned State Intervention network. Deployment is monitored under the terms of a Commitment Agreement signed between the company and my Department, however it is not funded by the State and it is not planned, designed or directed by my Department in any capacity.
99. Deputy Pat Deering asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the impact Project Ireland 2040 will have on 2030 climate targets; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53194/18]
View answerProject Ireland 2040, incorporating the National Planning Framework and the National Development Plan (NDP), is the first time an Irish Government has ever attempted to ensure that future growth is compact, connected, regionally balanced and sustainable. Implementing this integrated vision, and ensuring that the right capital investments are made, will create a significant shift in behaviour patterns and avoid lock-in to high emissions patterns of living. The NDP commits to a significant step change in funding available for climate action over the next decade.
Reflecting the strong commitment of Government on this issue, almost €22 billion will be directed, between Exchequer and non-Exchequer resources, to addressing the transition to a low-carbon and climate resilient society. A further €8.6bn will be made available for investments in sustainable transport measures.
This capital investment will enable us to deliver a large reduction in our greenhouse gas emissions over the period to 2030. Initial estimates of the potential emissions reduction contribution from full delivery of the relevant commitments in the NDP are set out in the 2018 Annual Transition Statement, published by my Department and laid before the Houses of the Oireachtas on 3 December last. These estimates suggest a cumulative total savings in greenhouse gas emissions of approximately 22 million tonnes of CO2 over the period 2021 to 2030, when compared to the most recent emissions projections published by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in May 2018. Work to further refine this initial estimate is continuing.
100. Deputy Michael Moynihan asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment if he met a person (details supplied) to discuss that person's report on the national broadband plan's procurement process before or after it was published. [50450/18]
View answerI can confirm that I, along with senior officials from my Department, met with the Process Auditor Mr. Peter Smyth on 19 November 2018. The purpose of the meeting was for the Process Auditor to present his report.
101. Deputy Catherine Martin asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment his plans for thermal retrofitting of private rented accommodation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53163/18]
View answer104. Deputy Timmy Dooley asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the specific actions he has taken to address split incentives for landlords and tenants as it relates to retrofitting for rental properties; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53181/18]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 101 and 104 together.
Energy upgrades in rental properties will deliver multiple benefits for owners as well as tenants including improved living conditions and health outcomes, enhanced asset value and reduced energy bills. Notwithstanding this, rented properties in both the residential and commercial sectors can present a particular challenge in terms of energy efficiency upgrades owing to the split incentive problem. A split incentive occurs where, for example, landlords would incur the cost of improvements, while tenants would reap the benefit in lower energy bills and improved thermal comfort so neither party is motivated to invest to upgrade.
The residential energy efficiency schemes funded by Government are available to private landlords but uptake remains low among that cohort. Properties rented from local authorities are currently being retrofitted, and funding has been allocated to the local authorities for this purpose by the Minister for Housing Planning & Local Government.
My Department has recently established a Special Advisory Group to consider and make recommendations on proposals to ameliorate the split incentive problem. It comprises senior representatives from my Department, the Department of Housing Planning & Local Government and the SEAI. The Group has been tasked with considering and making recommendations on appropriate policy interventions having regard to existing research, relevant international best practice and stakeholder inputs, and the impact on the current supply of rental accommodation and on people living in energy poverty.
A public consultation on proposed approaches to dealing with energy efficiency upgrades in rental properties will take place in the middle of next year as part of the consultation on the next Long Term Renovation Strategy.
102. Deputy Brian Stanley asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment if his attention has been drawn to the potential of ground-mounted and rooftop solar power to address some of the energy needs here; and the changes to regulations and planning needed to establish such energy sources. [53128/18]
View answerThe Energy in Ireland 2018 report by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) indicates that solar photovoltaic (solar PV) generation accounted for 0.03% of energy contribution to gross electricity consumption in Ireland at the end of 2017. This represents a three-fold increase on solar PV generation capacity over the previous 12 months.
I welcome reports of the falling costs of certain renewable technologies, including Solar PV and Offshore Wind over the past number of years, not only compared with other renewables but also with conventional forms of generation.
Increasing renewable technology diversity is one of several policy objectives of my Department. The new Renewable Electricity Support Scheme (RESS), the high level design of which was approved by Government in July 2018, is required because commercial renewable technologies are still not viable without financial support and the scheme is critical if we are to deliver our decarbonisation ambitions as laid out in the National Mitigation Plan. The Scheme has been designed to deliver Ireland’s contribution towards the binding EU-wide renewable energy target of 32% out to 2030. The scheme will also deliver other energy policy objectives including increased community ownership of and participation in renewable electricity projects and increased renewable technology diversity.
The Government recognises the important role that solar PV can play as part of a mix of renewable generation and the RESS will offer a potential pathway for solar PV projects at scale. My Department already supports solar PV through the SEAI-led Better Energy Communities and pilot Deep Retrofit schemes, and in July a new pilot scheme to support micro generation was introduced, initially targeting domestic self-consumption through a grant scheme for solar PV installation and battery storage. I am advised that over 3,000 applicants have expressed an interest to date and approximately 200 rebate claims are in process for payment by the SEAI who administering the scheme. Full details of the scheme are on the SEAI website at www.seai.ie.
The Department of Housing, Planning and Local Government and my Department are keeping under review the need to enhance national planning guidance on solar energy, taking account of solar energy projects being assessed by planning authorities and the scope for future development of the sector in the context of the on-going development of renewable energy policy.
103. Deputy Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the way in which he plans to meet, by 2021, the target of 45,000 deep retrofits per annum. [53167/18]
View answerThe National Development Plan (NDP) recognises that improving our energy efficiency is central to action on climate change. The NDP ambition is to increase energy efficient renovations in homes to circa 45,000 to a Building Energy Rating of B from 2021. Currently the Government is funding just under 25,000 home energy efficiency upgrades per annum to an average BER of C.
This is a significant step change in energy performance, skills, capacity and investment and will need to be accompanied by measures that build demand, grow the supply chain and offer attractive financing. Exchequer investment of €4 billion, along with taxation and regulatory measures, are provided for under the NDP. At least this level of investment will be necessary to drive the step change in energy performance in the residential sector.
A number of actions are already underway to achieve these levels of retrofit in homes such as the Deep Retrofit Pilot scheme and the Warmth and Wellbeing scheme. These will inform a model that can make deep retrofit both attractive and available to individual homeowners on a larger scale post 2020, and critically will help Ireland move to clean renewable heating systems.
I have recently received a mandate from Government to begin the preparation of a new All of Government Plan to bring about a step change in our climate ambition over the next decade, and beyond. As this is developed I will be looking at how we can further step up our activity in the area of deep retrofit and energy efficiency in general.
106. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment when he plans to meet the director general of RTÉ; the supports he will provide to RTÉ and TG4 in 2019; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [51495/18]
View answerI am in the process of meeting all bodies under the remit of my Department. The meeting referenced by the Deputy will be scheduled shortly.
I have made provision for the payment of €199.322m to RTÉ from TV licence fee receipts in 2019 and for an exchequer grant of €36.233m to TG4 comprising current funding of €34.233m and capital funding of €2m. These funding levels will be set out in the Revised Estimates for 2019 to be published by the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform shortly.
107. Deputy Mick Wallace asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment if consideration will be given to implementing a ban on the use of gas derived from hydraulic fracturing as an energy and fuel source here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53157/18]
View answerThe National Mitigation Plan, published in July 2017, restates the Government’s commitment to move from a fossil fuel-based electricity system to a low-carbon power system. Investment in further renewable generation will be incentivised.
The new Renewable Electricity Support Scheme, approved by government in July 2018, will provide for a renewable electricity ambition of 55% by 2030. Currently, 30% of our electricity is generated from renewables.
I have secured Government approval to develop an all of Government plan which will set out the actions which must be taken to make Ireland a leader in responding to climate change. This Plan will include the steps which we must take in order to reach this target. I will work with colleagues across Government to develop new initiatives across electricity, transport and heat, as well as a range of other sectors.
In all projected transitions to a low carbon economy by 2050, gas will continue to play a role. It plays an important role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the power generation, industrial and commercial, residential and transport sectors by replacing more Co2-intensive fossil fuels. In Ireland gas powered generation also provides an important back-up for intermittent renewable wind generation.
So while gas usage will reduce significantly in the years ahead, Ireland will still need secure sources of gas. At present this is provided by both gas piped on shore from Irish gas fields and imports through gas pipelines from the UK. I have no plans to impose a ban on the use of natural gas derived from any particular source.
Ireland’s energy policy is fully aligned with the EU’s climate and energy objectives on the transition to decarbonisation, which includes continuous and on-going review of policies to reduce harmful emissions, improve energy efficiency, incentivise efficient and sustainable infrastructure investment, integrate markets, and promote research and innovation while ensuring our energy security of supply is maintained and enhanced.
In relation to the production, sourcing, buying and selling of natural gas produced outside this jurisdiction, this is an operational matter for the undertakings involved. Any undertaking would be required to comply with EU law in this area.
108. Deputy Alan Farrell asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment his plans to reduce energy use through public lighting, with particular reference to non-LED local authority public lights. [53200/18]
View answerThe national project to upgrade our public lighting is led by the Local Authorities through the County & City Management Association (CCMA). Nevertheless, my Department has taken an active role in facilitating this important project, which is a flagship initiative under the Public Sector Energy Efficiency Strategy. The CCMA has identified energy efficient public lighting as the critical action to allow them comply with the obligation on all public bodies to improve energy efficiency by 33%.
To support the CCMA in this objective, my Department is involved in the project steering group, which is chaired by the CCMA. Following an intensive business planning process to identify the most cost effective approach from the perspectives of technology and delivery, I understand that the first of three planned regional tenders for upgrade works will issue in 2019, with the aim of having retrofit works underway in the first region by the end of the year. The project also made an application under the Climate Action Fund, which is administered by my Department, and was successful in the competitive process for funding support and allocated €17.47million in the first call for proposals.
109. Deputy Sean Sherlock asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment if consideration will be given to accelerating the number of community energy projects under the sustainable energy community network. [53137/18]
View answerOver 200 community groups have signed up to the Sustainable Energy Communities (SEC) Network since it was launched in 2015 and are availing of technical support and mentoring from SEAI. The next step is to develop a 3 year Partnership Agreement between SEAI and the communities, to identify, plan, implement and review a tailored programme of sustainable energy activities for each community and give them access to initial funding. Almost 30 network members now have Partnership status.
In 2017, €750,000 in funding was made available to support the SEC network to develop a multi annual pipeline for the scheme that will build capacity in communities to take on more ambitious sustainable energy projects and projects of scale in the coming years. This year 17 Sustainable Energy Community projects have been offered grants totalling €2.44million, to enable them to carry out smaller energy projects as identified in their Energy Master Plans. This gradual increase in funding directly reflects the capacity that has been built among the communities in the network in the short space of time since 2015.
The Deputy may also be aware of the Better Energy Communities Scheme (BEC) which funds community based partnerships to improve the energy efficiency of the building stock in their area. These partnerships can be between the public and private sectors, residential and commercial sectors, not-for-profit organisations and energy suppliers, and can leverage considerable additional private investment. This year 37 projects have been offered exchequer funding of €22.7million.
Further detail on the supports available for communities is available on SEAI's website. https://www.seai.ie/grants/community-grants/.
110. Deputy Mick Wallace asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment if the plan to cease burning coal at Moneypoint power station in 2025 will be reviewed in view of the fact that no coal has been burned there for over two months; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53156/18]
View answerThe electricity generating plant at Moneypoint is a 900MW coal-fired plant and contributes in a number of ways to security of electricity supply in Ireland, including diversity of fuel and storage. The scheduling and taking off-line for maintenance works in relation to Moneypoint or other generating stations are operational matters for the plant operators in line with the management of the transmission system by EirGrid, the Transmission System Operator. Moneypoint and other generating stations are often taken off-line for maintenance during low-demand periods so that they are available when required during peak periods, most notably in winter time when it is colder and the weather deteriorates. In relation to current maintenance work, ESB has advised that work is coming to completion on two units and they will be returning to service this month.
It is settled policy that electricity generation from coal will cease no later than 2025. This position has been set out in a number of policy documents, including the National Mitigation Plan, the National Development Plan 2018-2027 and the 2015 Energy Policy Paper, “Ireland’s Transition to a Low-Carbon Energy Future”. The 2016 Programme for Government included a commitment that the most suitable low-carbon technology to replace coal by 2025 would be identified.
The ESB is studying options for replacement of decommissioned coal generation. As part of this study, the ESB will consider the best option in energy and climate policy terms.
111. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment his views on whether the timeline for the North-South interconnector remains in line with estimated projected demand; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52951/18]
View answerThe single electricity market for the island of Ireland has brought many economic and social benefits, both north and south.
The enduring success of the single electricity market depends critically on the degree of interconnection. Currently just 300MW of electricity supply across the existing north south interconnector is permitted so as to ensure that electricity is securely provided to customers. The new north south interconnector will facilitate substantial increases in capacity transfers, thereby facilitating a more effective single electricity market.
Interconnection helps ensure that only the most efficient and low carbon generation is brought onto the grid. The interconnector also substantially increases the capacity to connect up to an estimated 900 MW of renewables to our grid. Currently 30% of our electricity comes from renewables but as part of our strategy to meet our climate commitments we need to almost double that proportion.
The North South interconnector has been subject to economic analysis and the benefit to cost ratio is very positive. The interconnector is expected to bring savings in the single electricity market of €20 million per annum from its inception, rising to between €40 million and €60 million per annum by 2030. Much of these savings result from reductions in network constraints that will accrue from its delivery.
The project has received planning consent in Ireland and Northern Ireland, however these decisions are the subject of ongoing legal challenges in both jurisdictions. The development of the interconnector including associated procurement activities are operational matters for EirGrid and ESB Networks.
The Generation Capacity Statement (GCS) 2018 covers both Northern Ireland and Ireland, and is produced jointly between the System Operator for Northern Ireland and EirGrid. This is in line with their regulatory requirements to publish forecast information about the power system including an assessment of the balance between supply and demand. The Generation Capacity Statement is updated annually to ensure adequate capacity is available in the market on an all-island basis and to plan accordingly.
I am advised that the increase in generation capacity as shown in the Generation Capacity Statement published by the Transmission System Operators does not impact on the need for the interconnector. It is also important to note that the increase in Northern Ireland generation capacity shown is likely to be temporary in nature. The main increase is from the assumed continued availability of the coal fired Kilroot generating units and two of the older less efficient Ballylumford units. The long term continued operation of these generators is not sustainable in the context of decarbonisation of the industry.
In fact since the Generation Capacity Statement was published, the Utility Regulator for Northern Ireland granted derogation requests on 9 November to AES for the two Ballylumford units, totalling 250MW, from the requirement to give three years notice of closure.
112. Deputy Aindrias Moynihan asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the progress to date in completing the contract in locations (details supplied) with regard to the roll-out of 300,000 fibre connections by Eir; the number of homes that could not be connected in the area due to issues related to ducting and-or infrastructure; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53174/18]
View answerIn April 2017 my Department published an updated High Speed Broadband Map, which is available at www.broadband.gov.ie. This map shows the areas targeted by commercial operators to provide high speed broadband services and the areas that will be included in the State Intervention Area under the National Broadband Plan. The Map is colour coded and searchable by address/Eircode:
- The AMBER areas represent the target areas for the proposed State led Intervention under the NBP and are the subject of an ongoing procurement process.
- The BLUE represent those areas where commercial providers are either currently delivering or have plans to deliver high speed broadband services.
- The LIGHT BLUE areas represent eir's commercial rural deployment plans to rollout high speed broadband to 300,000 premises as part of a Commitment Agreement signed with my Department in April 2017.
The High Speed Broadband Map indicates that one of the premises referred to by the Deputy is in a LIGHT BLUE area. The remainder are BLUE. Information on categories of specific premises can be accessed by entering the premise’s eircode into the map, which is available at www.broadband.gov.ie.
Under a Commitment Agreement signed with my Department in April 2017, eir is in the process of passing 300,000 predominantly rural homes with high speed broadband. According to data for Q3 2018 submitted by eir to my Department the company has passed almost 210,000 premises nationwide as part of its ongoing deployment. Premises in the LIGHT BLUE areas have yet to be passed as part of this deployment.
Eir’s deployment was initially planned for completion in 2018. However, eir has indicated to the Department that their deployment schedule has been impacted by storms Emma and Ophelia, and other construction issues. Eir has proposed new timelines for its deployment which would see the project completed by mid-2019. My Department is engaging with eir on this proposal, which is subject to my formal approval.
BLUE areas of the map represent those areas where commercial providers are either currently delivering or have plans to deliver high speed broadband services. Where a premises in the LIGHT BLUE is marked with a BLUE dot, this premises is one which is indicated as having been passed by eir as part of their rural deployment of high speed broadband. According to rollout information given to my Department by that company that premises should be in a position to be provided with a broadband connection from a provider offering services on the new network.
Where a premises in this situation is experiencing difficulties ordering connection to eir’s new network via one of the retail service providers that offer services upon it, I would encourage them to email my Department at broadband@dccae.gov.ie. They should include their Eircode, details of the service providers they have contacted and the issues encountered in respect of accessing high speed broadband. Officials in my Department will then be able to pursue the matter with eir.
