Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 19 January 2022
144. Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications the steps he has taken to date to progress the North Seas Offshore Grids development as outlined in the draft European Union regulation for trans-European energy infrastructure; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1757/22]
View answer145. Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications the steps he has taken to date to progress the Atlantic Offshore Grids development as outlined in the draft European Union regulation for trans-European energy infrastructure; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1758/22]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 144 and 145 together. I propose to take Question Nos 144 and 155 together.
There are currently two new electricity interconnectors under development to link Ireland's electricity system to France (Celtic interconnector) and to Wales (Greenlink interconnector).
A revision of the Trans-European Networks for Energy (TEN-E) Regulation has taken place over the last 12 months to facilitate the increased climate objectives contained in the European Green Deal. Following agreement over a provisional revision of the TEN-E Regulation between negotiators of the Council Presidency and the European Parliament on 15 December, it is anticipated that the revised regulation will be approved by the Council and Parliament during the coming months.
This revised regulation will subsequently form the legislative basis for selection of the 6th EU Projects of Common Interest (PCI) list for energy infrastructure during 2023-24. The increased focus on the establishment of offshore grids contained in the provisional revised TEN-E Regulation has been strongly advocated for by Ireland during discussions at Council over the last 12 months.
The decision to apply for inclusion on the 6th PCI list will be a matter for individual project promoters of eligible energy infrastructure, including proposed new electricity interconnectors between Ireland and neighbouring countries. It is important to note that my Department will continue to support development of regional offshore grids through the establishment of an appropriate policy framework, engagement with viable proposed new offshore infrastructure projects, and working groups within the North Seas Energy Cooperation (NSEC), of which Ireland will hold the rotating Presidency during 2022.
