Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 18 January 2023
108. Deputy Jackie Cahill asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications the way a domestic electricity user with solar panels will receive compensation for the excess electricity generated that is returned to the grid; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1354/23]
View answer135. Deputy Holly Cairns asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications the status of the microgeneration scheme. [2422/23]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 108 and 135 together.
The phased introduction of the Micro-generation Support Scheme (MSS) began with the commencement of the MSS domestic solar PV grant on 16 February, 2022, with grant levels up to a maximum of €2,400 available through the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI). The second phase of the scheme, announced on 22nd September,2022, saw Solar PV grants extended to the non-domestic sector, for installations up to and including 6 kW. Grants are administered by SEAI and are up to a maximum of €2,400.
New installations greater than 6kW up to 50kW will be eligible for a Clean Export Premium (CEP) tariff per kWh exported. It is expected that the CEP will be implemented further to a public consultation process to be undertaken by the Commission for Regulation of Utilities (CRU) in 2023.
The underlying principle, and primary advantage of microgeneration is self-consumption of electricity. This is predominantly how microgeneration can help consumers shield against electricity costs. While there is potential for payment for any excess electricity, export is an additional benefit but not the primary driver for engaging in microgeneration.
On the 15 February 2022 I signed the Regulations that create an obligation on suppliers to offer the Clean Export Guarantee (CEG) tariff to new and existing micro-and small-scale generators so that they will receive payment for excess renewable electricity they export to the grid, reflective of the market value.
The Commission for Regulation of Utilities (CRU) published a decision on an interim enabling framework for the CEG which outlines the arrangements for the implementation of the CEG, including eligibility criteria and remuneration methodology. More information is available here: Clean Export Guarantee - Commission for Regulation of Utilities (cru.ie)
I am aware that suppliers have published a range of CEG tariffs from €13.5c/kWh up to €21c/kWh which allows customers to shop around and switch suppliers to obtain the best rates for selling and purchasing electricity.
The CRU expects all suppliers to put in place measures to make CEG payments to customers at the earliest opportunity and to communicate this to their customers. Micro-generators will not lose out while payment systems are put in place as payments to customers will be backdated to when they either became eligible or to the 15th February 2022. The CRU advises customers to contact their supplier to obtain information on their suppliers' CEG tariff arrangements as many have already paid customers for their export generation.
