Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 20 September 2022
140. Deputy Fergus O'Dowd asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications his views on genuine concerns raised by a local business (details supplied) in respect of the worsening energy crisis that is debilitating businesses across Ireland; his plans to support businesses in the future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45499/22]
View answer185. Deputy Peter Fitzpatrick asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if the Government has plans to assist small, local businesses on the spiralling costs of electricity; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46055/22]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 140 and 185 together.
The increase in international wholesale gas prices has continued to be driven to unprecedentedly high levels by the volatility in the international gas market. I am working with my Government colleagues to identify the business energy supports that are needed particularly for SMEs.As set out in the National Energy Security Framework (NESF), the Department of Enterprise Trade and Employment is leading consultations with business and industry to understand the specific impacts on different business sectors in Ireland, and to hear their concerns and perspectives on the appropriate and most effective tools for policy action.
In addition, the nationwide Reduce Your Use campaign is a key part of the Government's wider approach under the NESF. The public information campaign gives practical advice on how people and businesses can save money by promoting and encouraging energy efficiency and will focus on how we can reduce heating and electricity usage – in homes, workplaces and public sector buildings Reviews of existing business energy efficiency and renewable heat support schemes, funded by my Department and administered by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI), have been carried out. The aim of these reviews is to increase uptake of existing business supports to reduce emissions, improve energy efficiency and reduce costs.
