Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 18 September 2018
625. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the extent to which the switch to indigenous alternative non-fossil fuels for electricity generation is progressing with particular reference to the need to meet international deadlines and shift to electric cars; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37855/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraIreland has set a target of 40% of electricity consumption to come from renewable sources by 2020. SEAI estimates that a level of 30.1% was achieved in 2017.
The increased level of renewable electricity has primarily been driven by the REFIT support schemes. Although the REFIT support schemes have closed for new applications, projects that have been approved continue to be developed and will further contribute to meeting our 2020 renewable electricity target.
In July, I secured Government approval for a new Renewable Electricity Support Scheme. This scheme, which is subject to State Aid approval, will support additional growth in renewable electricity.
As part of the recently agreed recast of the Renewable Energy Directive, an EU renewable energy target of 32% for 2030 was set. Ireland's contribution to this target, including the level of renewable electricity in 2030, will be set out in our National Energy and Climate Plan. The first draft of this plan is due to be developed by the end of 2018 and a final plan by the end of 2019.
Increasing the level of renewable electricity also makes an important contribution to decarbonising the transport sector. Greater levels of renewable electricity leads to a higher overall reduction in emissions from electric vehicles. It is therefore critically important that we continue to grow the share of renewables in the electricity sector alongside the growth of electric vehicle use.
