Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 21 April 2021
221. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if he will address a matter (details supplied) regarding a technical analysis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18280/21]
View answer232. Deputy Brian Leddin asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if consultants have been appointed to commence the technical analysis to inform a review of the security of energy supply of Ireland's electricity and natural gas systems; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18782/21]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 221 and 232 together.
The review of the security of energy supply of Ireland’s electricity and natural gas systems is focussing on the period to 2030 in the context of ensuring a sustainable pathway to 2050. The review includes a technical analysis and public consultation.
Consultants have been appointed to undertake the technical analysis which will include identification and examination of the key risks to the security of supply in the electricity and natural gas systems; identification of options that could address or mitigate these risks in the period to 2030; and appraisal of these options in the context of ensuring a sustainable pathway to 2050.
The identification and examination of risks will take into account the expected levels of indigenous production of natural gas including natural gas that may be produced under existing applications, options and licences. The options that could be taken to address or mitigate the risks and their appraisal will not include additional indigenous production beyond what is taken into account in the identification and examination of risks. This is in keeping with the Programme for Government.
Following the completion and publication of the technical analysis, a public consultation will be carried out. This will provide all stakeholders and the public an opportunity to input into the review. It is intended the review will be completed by the end of 2021.
