Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 15 June 2023
161. Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if he will outline his assessment of fuel poverty and the success of measures taken to tackle this challenge. [24648/23]
View answerEnergy Poverty remains a central Government priority given the high energy costs faced by people across the country, and the need to tackle energy poverty as part of the just transition.
Budget 2023 introduced €2.5 billion of measures to support people with the high cost of living, including €1.2 billion through the Electricity Cost Emergency Benefit Scheme. This scheme saw €600 credited to each domestic electricity account over three payment periods. Evidence from the Commission for Regulation of Utilities has shown these credits have made a positive impact on reducing electricity arrears, and keeping them below 2022 levels.
My Department will continue to work with suppliers, public bodies and NGOs to support people experiencing difficulties meeting energy costs this winter, including Pay As You Go gas and electricity customers. Additional measures are currently being considered in the context of Budget 2024.
In December 2022, Government published the Energy Poverty Action plan, which outlines the long-term measures needed to support a just transition, and to ensure those most vulnerable can stay warm and well. The Action Plan pledges support for ESRI research to develop metrics to measure energy poverty and track changes in its severity and scope over time. This three-year research programme will assist Government to ensure future actions protect those most at risk.
In addition, my Department commissioned a nationally representative fortnightly research tracker, which is indicating that Irish families are making every effort to reduce their energy use and that there has been a reduction in the difficulty of meeting energy costs.
Ultimately, the best way to combat energy poverty in the long-term will be by continuing to make investments to improve the energy efficiency of homes, boost renewable energy adoption, and deepen interconnection with Europe. Improving home energy efficiency and cutting our dependence on fossil fuels will ensure a cleaner, cheaper energy future.
