Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 6 April 2016
787. Deputy Thomas Byrne asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the national policies in place with respect to solar panel farms; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5699/16]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe White Paper on Energy Policy, published in December 2015, identified the potential for solar technology in Ireland, including the development of solar photovoltaic (PV) farms.
It is widely recognised that solar PV technology has become more cost competitive for electricity generation, not only compared with other renewables but also compared with conventional forms of generation. The deployment of solar PV in Ireland has the potential to contribute to our renewable energy targets and is one of the technologies being considered in the context of the new support scheme for renewable electricity generation which is expected to be available towards the end of 2016.
The Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) provides supports for the use of solar thermal heating technology to both large industry and SMEs. Households can also avail of grant support for investment in renewable energy installations, including solar thermal, under the Better Energy Homes Scheme. In addition, the current tax-based support incentives include the Employment and Investment Incentive Scheme which allows individual investors to obtain income tax relief on investments in renewable energy in each tax year. Moreover, an Accelerated Capital Allowance scheme allows companies to offset the cost of investment in qualifying renewable energy generation technologies, against their tax liabilities in year 1 rather than over a more prolonged period, thus aiding their cash flow.
Before a final decision is taken on introducing a new support scheme - which may include support for solar PV - my Department will run a public consultation, which will give all interested parties an opportunity to participate in the development of the scheme. Subject to Government approval and State aid clearance from the European Commission, it is expected that a new scheme will be announced towards the end of 2016.
