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Wind Energy Generation

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 5 December 2019

Thursday, 5 December 2019

Questions (308)

Peter Burke

Question:

308. Deputy Peter Burke asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment if he has considered offering grants to those who erect and maintain wind turbines at significant personal cost (details supplied); his views on whether the tariff for exporting green power is low compared to other European countries; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [50781/19]

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Written answers

As the Deputy may be aware, last year, my Department assessed micro generation, across a number of renewable electricity generating technologies, as part of the economic analysis to underpin the new Renewable Electricity Support Scheme (RESS). The assessment identified technical and financial challenges, which may need to be addressed before a broader support scheme for micro generation can be introduced. This is in line with international and EU experience, where many member states who have introduced supports for micro generation have had to reform them or cancel them altogether. Action 30 of the Climate Action Plan, which includes the establishment of a working group in Q3 2019, sets out the steps necessary and timelines for the delivery of an enabling framework for microgeneration. The working group has been formed and is progressing the associated work programme.

The Plan provides that a support payment for excess electricity generated on site and exported to the grid will be available to all micro-generators by 2021 whilst ensuring principles of equity, self-consumption and energy efficiency first are incorporated. A public consultation/call-for-evidence of possible support mechanisms will commence in Q3 2020.

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