Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 8 November 2022
109. Deputy Cormac Devlin asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if the Poolbeg west strategic development zone is ready for supply to the Dublin district heating system; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54359/22]
View answerWhile it is a condition of the planning permission for the Poolbeg West Strategic Development Zone that the buildings there be capable of connection to a district heating system, I have no function in relation to the matter raised in the Question. Responsibility for the development of the Dublin District Heating Scheme is a matter for the local authority.
The Climate Action Plan 2021 contains actions to provide a solid basis for the appropriate expansion of district heating in Ireland, including the establishment of a multi-disciplinary District Heating Steering Group, which was established earlier this year. The Steering Group has met ten times this year and oversees a number of Working Groups that are conducting in-depth, solutions-based analysis of the key areas that must be addressed in order to support district heating. The Steering Group is working to have its initial report prepared by year end, with recommendations on steps necessary to support a structured, nationally consistent approach to the development of district heating.
