Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 3 May 2023
61. Deputy Jennifer Whitmore asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications to outline Government policy on the importation of LNG and the commercial development of LNG infrastructure; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20722/23]
View answerIn May 2021 the Government published its Policy Statement on the Importation of Fracked Gas. This policy sets out that pending the outcome of the review of the security of energy supply of Ireland’s electricity and natural gas systems, it would not be appropriate for Ireland to permit or proceed with the development of any LNG terminals.
The Review is focused on the period to 2030, but in the context of ensuring a sustainable transition up to 2050. The range of measures being examined as part of the Review include the need for additional capacity to import energy, energy storage, fuel diversification, demand side response and renewable gases. My Department is now at an advanced stage of completing this review. A detailed technical analysis has been published and an extensive consultation process has been carried out. The response to the consultation was extensive with over 450 submissions received from a broad range of individuals and organisations. The consultation responses were reviewed and analysed, and they have provided important insights on a number of aspects such as risks, mitigation options and policy measures.
My Department is currently preparing energy security recommendations. I will bring my recommendations arising from the review to Government in Q2 for their consideration.
