The Renewable Electricity Support Scheme (RESS) is an auction-based scheme which invites renewable electricity projects to compete for a guaranteed price for the electricity they generate. The first of these renewable electricity auctions (RESS-1) will take place on the 21 July. There will be a series of auctions up to 2030 to deliver on Ireland's renewable electricity targets.
RESS-1 is open to renewable generator projects who are in receipt of a grid connection offer or are eligible to receive one under the Enduring Connection Policy process. Other eligibility criteria include planning permission and landowner agreements.
Renewable generators may also enter the market via Corporate or Merchant Power Purchase Agreements (CPPAs) i.e. unsubsidised supply contracts with private entities or utilities. The Climate Action Plan sets out a target of 15% of all renewable electricity from CPPAs by 2030. CPPAs have potential to provide a route to market for renewable project developers, boosting Ireland's renewable energy capacity. The Plan includes a suite of actions to develop effective policy tools that can kick start corporate PPAs in Ireland and deliver on our RES-E targets at no extra cost to the public.
Renewable generators may apply for and receive grid connections without participating in RESS.