Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 25 January 2024
128. Deputy Seán Canney asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if he will consider putting a stay on on-shore windfarms in line with the UK decision as they are causing much concern for communities in which they are being planned; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3056/24]
View answerThe development of renewable energy, including onshore wind, is central to achieving our climate ambitions in Ireland in line with the Climate Action and Low Carbon Development Act, as well as renewable energy targets under EU legislation. Renewable energy reduces dependence on fossil fuels, improves security of supply, and reduces greenhouse gas emissions creating environmental benefits while delivering green jobs to the economy, thus contributing to our national competitiveness.
Given that the programme of large-scale offshore wind deployment is expected to be realised
towards end decade, deployment rates for onshore renewables will need to increase to match
demand growth to ensure that we keep electricity emissions within range of the carbon budgets.
The recently published Climate Action Plan 2024 sets out a target of 80% of our electricity generation will come from renewable sources by 2030. Through the Renewable Electricity Support Scheme and other routes to market, employment and economic value to the Irish economy is being realised with the continued development of onshore wind. Direct and indirect employment from windfarm construction and maintenance, as well as significant community benefit payments all contribute to local economies and communities.
As the onshore wind sector continues to grow in line with the national ambition, its financial contribution to many local authorities will also increase providing a valuable source of revenue that can be reinvested in local communities and services.
The results of a survey published last year by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland indicate that there are overall high levels of support towards onshore wind and solar energy.
