Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 4 November 2021
25. Deputy Christopher O'Sullivan asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications the progress made towards the Programme for Government commitment to develop new standards to reduce emissions from f-gases and new requirements to make lighting more energy efficient. [53698/21]
View answerFluorinated greenhouse gases (‘F-gases’) are a family of man-made gases used in a range of industrial applications such as refrigeration equipment, heat pumps, fire suppression systems and electrical switchgear. Use of F-gases is controlled in Ireland by EU Regulation 517/2014. One of the main aims of this regulation is to cut EU F-gas emissions by two-thirds compared with 2014 levels. To this end, the Commission progressively lowers the quantities of certain F-gases allowed on the market. While the amount of f-gas placed on the market is determined at EU level, we work with a number of key stakeholders to reduce F-gas emissions. We also encourage the adoption of new technology which uses natural refrigerants such as carbon dioxide and propane as substitutes for F-gases. The EPA is designated as the competent authority for the F-gas regulations. The EPA carry out inspections of companies involved in handling F-gases and provides guidance for end-users and contractors on the EPA FGas Guidance Page.
The current EU regulation is now under review with a new regulation expected towards the end of 2022. While the Department continues to work with the EPA and other stakeholders, we consider the need for new standards for training or handling when the review is complete.
In relation to lighting, the SEAI Triple E Register of energy efficient equipment, a benchmark register of best in class energy efficiency equipment, is currently under review. Proposals are being made for changes to the eligibility criteria including the criteria for lighting equipment, with a view to ensuring only the most energy efficient lighting products appear on the register. The revised proposals will be the subject of a stakeholder engagement exercise scheduled for this month, through which industry and other interested stakeholders will be asked to participate. The new criteria will be published early in 2022.
