Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 23 March 2022
15. Deputy Jim O'Callaghan asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications the measures he plans to take to secure Ireland's energy supply in view of the Russian invasion of Ukraine and the necessity of Europe no longer relying on Russian gas and oil. [15283/22]
View answer16. Deputy Jim O'Callaghan asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications the measures he plans to take to reduce EU demand for Russian gas by two thirds before the end of the year in accordance with the European Commission’s plan to make Europe independent from Russian fossil fuels well before 2030 announced on 8 March 2022. [15284/22]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 15 and 16 together.
The RePowerEU Plan launched by the European Commission on 8 March 2022 sets out an outline plan to make Europe independent from Russian fossil fuels well before 2030 in light of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. This communication sets out new actions to ramp up the production of green energy, diversify supplies and reduce demand, focusing primarily on gas, which significantly influences the electricity market and where the global market is less liquid. Ireland will work closely with the European Commission and Member States to deliver upon this ambition.
In the immediate tern, Ireland is continuing to monitor international energy (gas and oil) markets and to consult with its EU and international partners on appropriate measures, if necessary, to ensure energy security in light of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The European Commission is engaging with other countries to ensure sufficient and timely supply of natural gas to the EU from diverse sources across the globe to avoid supply shocks, including those that could result from disruptions.
This crisis in Ukraine has brought into sharp focus the EU and Ireland’s reliance on fossil fuel imports. We must continue to accelerate the clean energy transition, focussing on energy efficiency and renewable energies. The best way to secure our energy needs is to continue to promote energy efficiency and renewable energy. Climate Action Plan 2021 sets us on a pathway to reduce our reliance on imported fossil fuels dramatically by 2030.
My Department is carrying out a review of the security of energy supply of Ireland’s electricity and natural gas systems. This review is being carried out for the period to 2030, in the context of net zero emissions by no later than 2050. This includes examining potential risks and potential mitigating options for such risks.
