Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 16 October 2019
55. Deputy John Curran asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the steps being taken to minimise the time period to connect renewable generators to the grid in view of the fact there is a wait of over eight years for same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42158/19]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe connection of renewable generators to the grid is an operational matter for the Commission for Regulation of Utilities in conjunction with EirGrid and ESB Networks and one in which I have no function.
A key commitment in the Climate Action Plan is the regulatory streamlining of renewables and grid development. A comprehensive set of actions (Actions 16 to 24) have been published for delivery by a range of agencies and include ensuring that ESB Networks and EirGrid plan the network and deliver on connecting renewable energy sources to meet the 2030 70% RES-E target. Specifically, the facilitation of additional hybrid connections operating in the electricity market to increase our RES-E penetration is required. In addition, delivery of a fit for purpose renewables connection policy is critical to deliver on renewable energy targets with annual reporting on the timelines of grid connection.
Subsidy free renewable energy through corporate power purchase agreements provide a route to market for developers in the shorter term providing them with a real opportunity to boost Ireland's renewable energy capacity in advance of the commencement of RESS. The Climate Plan commits to a 15% target for the renewable industry to develop projects through power purchase agreements. It is critical that the industry takes early action to meet this target in contributing to both our 2020 and 2030 targets at minimum cost to consumers.
