Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 24 July 2018
2039. Deputy John Curran asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the supports planned for micro-generation of renewable energy as an important role in Ireland’s transition to a low carbon economy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32911/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe introduction of a pilot scheme for micro generation, which I announced earlier this year, will target solar PV and self-consumption amongst domestic customers. It will deliver on ambitions and commitments made in the Energy White Paper and the Programme for Government.
The scheme will commence later this summer and further details on the application process and eligibility criteria will be made available shortly. The design of the scheme has been informed by the completion and consideration of the results of a study undertaken by the SEAI into the likely uptake and demand for the scheme, and a review of current solar PV installation costs. In addition, a Code of Practice is being finalised in close consultation with industry and relevant state agencies that will detail the necessary safety and technical standards required to facilitate its successful delivery and support an enduring sustainable micro generation industry.
The data gathered during the pilot scheme will inform potential future phases of support for micro generation in Ireland that may be appropriate, as we align with the ambition of the recast Renewable Energy Directive which recognises the rights, entitlements and obligations of renewable self-consumers and renewable energy communities.
Last year, my Department assessed micro generation, across a number of renewable electricity generating technologies, as part of the economic analysis to underpin the new Renewable Electricity Support Scheme (RESS). The assessment identified technical and financial challenges which may need to be addressed before a broader support scheme for micro generation can be introduced. This is in line with international experience, including across the EU, where many member states who have introduced supports for micro generation have had to reform them or cancel them altogether.
The reality is that bringing micro generation onto a system designed for large generators is complicated. It impacts how we pay for the network, how we manage regulation and how we technically manage the system. My Department continues to engage with the micro generation sector and the SEAI to better understand how to validate and further develop these policies in a fair and cost effective manner.
