Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Tuesday, 11 Nov 2003

Vol. 574 No. 1

Written Answers. - Alternative Energy Projects.

Eamon Ryan

Ceist:

312 Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his plans to give a direction to the energy regulator with regard to the way in which the current strengthening of the distribution system can be regulated in such a manner that will ensure the development of the renewable energy sector. [26590/03]

Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources (Mr. D. Ahern):

My powers to issue policy directions to the Commission for Energy Regulation are circumscribed under the Electricity Regulation Act 1999. Section 9(1)(a) of that Act confines ministerial power of direction to the issue of trading in electricity solely.