Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 23 October 2019
176. Deputy Kevin O'Keeffe asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment when the meter replacement programme as part of the national smart metering programme will be rolled out in north-east areas of County Cork. [43793/19]
View answerThe Smart Meter Upgrade is a meter replacement programme which will result in the upgrade of over 2 million meters to modern, smart-ready technology. These new generation electricity meters are also being rolled out across Europe and internationally. The upgrade to smart meters will encourage energy efficiency, support an increase in renewable power on the energy system, and result in lower overall costs for consumers. The installation of smart meters is a key enabler for the energy transition to a decarbonised system as outlined in the Government's Climate Action Plan. This is a very significant energy infrastructure project. The rollout will occur in a structured and phased basis, commencing with an initial delivery of 20,000 meters by year end, rising to 250,000 meters by end 2020 and a further 500,000 meters every year from 2021 to 2024.
On 2 September 2019 ESB Networks commenced the rollout in Portlaoise and Bandon and their surrounding areas. North east areas of county Cork are not included in the short term schedules but these will be reviewed in the new year. ESB Networks have committed to ensuring that customers will be given plenty of notice ahead of their meter replacement.
