Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 20 May 2020
933. Deputy Dara Calleary asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the policy on the development of hydrogen power here; if he has had engagements, discussions or paper exchanges with the Commission for Regulation of Utilities regarding its potential as a power source; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6227/20]
View answerThe Government has set a target of 70% of electricity consumption to come from renewable sources (mainly wind and solar) by 2030 as part of the Climate Action Plan. The production of hydrogen from renewable electricity at times of low electricity demand could provide a zero-emission energy source for use in sectors such as transport and industry.
The European Union’s Green Deal and Industrial Strategy prioritise the need to develop hydrogen in achieving climate neutrality by 2050. The European Commission is also expected to publish a new strategy for smart sector integration which will set out a vision for clean hydrogen. My Department is a member of the European Union’s Hydrogen Energy Network which is a platform for the exchange of information and good practices on hydrogen as an energy carrier. In addition, my Department is a member of the North Seas Energy Cooperation which supports the development of the offshore renewable energy potential in the region and is examining the role that hydrogen can play in reaching our climate and energy ambitions.
At a national level my Department regularly engages with a range of key stakeholders including the Commission for Regulation of Utilities and Gas Networks Ireland. In addition, my Department is a policy stakeholder with Hydrogen Mobility Ireland – an industry-led group seeking to develop hydrogen as a transport fuel.
My Department will continue to work with European and national stakeholders to develop policy in relation to the role of hydrogen in Ireland’s transition to a low carbon economy and society.
