I propose to take Questions Nos. 243 to 247, inclusive, together.
The regulation of the electricity network, including the management of the grid connection process and related matters, is a matter for the Commission for Regulation of Utilities (CRU), under the Electricity Regulation Act, 1999. In this regard the CRU’s Work Plan outlining its key priorities for 2018 was laid before the Houses of the Oireachtas earlier this year. The CRU is an independent statutory body, solely accountable to a committee of the Oireachtas, and I therefore have no function in the matter.
As outlined on the CRU’s website, the CRU’s proposed decision on the Enduring Connection Policy ( ECP-1) was subject to public consultation between 2 November and 15 December 2017. The CRU's consideration of stakeholder feedback is ongoing. My Department further understands that the CRU proposes to issue a final decision on ECP-1 by the end of March 2018.