Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 24 March 2021
236. Deputy Marian Harkin asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if additional investments have been made or planned since the formation of the Government to reinforce and develop the transmission network to facilitate the transfer of renewable energy from offshore wind turbines; and, if so, the regional breakdown of these investments. [14695/21]
View answerMatters relating to the cost of grid investment and projects funded are operational matters for EirGrid and the Commission for Regulation of Utilities (CRU). EirGrid is the transmission system operator and its responsibilities include the appropriate development of the grid and power system to achieve our energy policy objectives and underpin economic development. The CRU is the independent energy regulator and, through a formal price review process, it decides on appropriate spend by EirGrid on a five-year basis.
The recent price review decision by the CRU on the allowable spend on our electricity grid over the next five years signalled a significant and necessary increase in funds for grid enhancement. EirGrid already seeks to optimise the existing electricity grid to minimise the need for new infrastructure through upgrades, refurbishment or up-voltaging of existing infrastructure, where possible. However, in light of the Government's ambition to have 70% renewable electricity on the power system by 2030, and with demand profiles increasing as we continue to electrify more sectors of our economy, further investment in the power grid is required over the coming decade.
The Programme for Government includes the target of increased installed capacity of offshore wind generation in Ireland to 5 GW by the end of the decade. To facilitate future integration of the 5 GW of offshore wind generation, officials in my Department have been developing a framework for Ireland’s future offshore electricity transmission system. This framework will include provisions for the planning, development, and operation of the offshore grid. In addition, the CRU has directed EirGrid to undertake a study examining the options, including required network reinforcement, for connection of offshore projects that are successful in Ireland’s first dedicated offshore renewable energy auction, which is expected to take place in late 2021 or early 2022.
