Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 25 July 2023
110. Deputy Darren O'Rourke asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications the extent to which high energy costs have contributed to the reduction of residential emissions, as detailed by the latest EPA report; the measures in place to mitigate against an increase should energy prices decrease; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36708/23]
View answerI welcome the 12.7% reduction in residential emissions in 2022, in comparison with 2021 levels, as reported in the EPA’s 2022 greenhouse gas emissions report. According to the EPA, this reduction is due to a combination of factors, including households switching to renewable heat sources, a reduction in the use of emissions intensive solid fuels following introduction of the Solid Fuel Regulations in October 2022, behavioural changes, milder weather, and higher fossil fuel prices.
While high energy costs, therefore, had some role to play, it is important also to note the impact of policy measures in the sector. Data published by the SEAI indicate that the National Retrofit Plan delivered 27,200 home energy upgrades in 2022, with an estimated 40.27kt CO2 emissions savings. The 2023 Climate Action Plan sets out a range of further measures, in addition to retrofit, to deliver emission reductions in the residential sector, in particular the continued strengthening of building regulations, supporting the growth and development of district heating, electrification of heating and geothermal energy, and promoting reduced demand through behavioural change.
Since the invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, this Government has introduced a range of supports to assist households and businesses following the resulting increases in energy prices. These include:
• Providing a €600 electricity credit to all households, with a total value of €1.3 billion
• An additional once-off fuel allowance payment of €400 and increase to the income threshold at which the Fuel Allowance can be paid to people aged under 70
• A once-off payment for people living alone
• The introduction of the Temporary Business Energy Support Scheme (TBESS) that initially provided up to €10,000 per business per month to help businesses meet rising energy costs. The scheme has since been extended. The amount of eligible costs increased to €15,000 and the time limit for all claims under the scheme has been extended to 30 September 2023
