Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 31 March 2015
691. Deputy James Bannon asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the progress that has been made by his Department to extend smart grid efficiency to all parts of County Longford; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13199/15]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe EirGrid Smart Grid Strategy addresses the power system challenges of the large scale deployment of new technologies – both new energy sources and new energy uses - and is not broken down into individual county initiatives. In developing the electricity grid, EirGrid works to ensure that the latest Smart Grid technologies are deployed to enhance the overall efficiency and capability of the power system for the benefit of all electricity consumers.
Ireland has a unique opportunity in Smart Grids. No other synchronous electricity system in the world manages the same levels of wind penetration (50%) seen today, much less the target of being able to safely and securely manage real-time penetration levels of 75% by 2020. The island of Ireland is effectively a live laboratory of Smart Grid evolution.
EirGrid continues to manage the Smart Grid Innovation Hub and the demonstration projects initiative which encourage innovation in new grid applications. In 2013, it also launched a Smart Grid iPhone app which enables users to see key energy related real-time data and facilitates smart energy use decisions.
In addition, EirGrid established the DS3 programme which is concerned with developing solutions to the challenges associated with increasing levels of renewable generation, particularly with regard to a secure power system operation, as we work towards achieving our 2020 renewable targets. In this regard the DS3 programme brings together many different strands, including development of financial incentives for better plant performance, and development of operational policies and system tools to use the portfolio to the best of its capabilities. Standards for wind farms and conventional plant are also being reviewed to give enhanced operational flexibility for the future.
