Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 10 March 2021
168. Deputy David Stanton asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications the progress of the renewable electricity support scheme involving 82 solar and wind projects, seven of which are community based; the level of support provided and envisaged for 2021; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1371/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe results of the first RESS auction were approved by Government in September 2020, with 82 successful projects made up of 479MW of onshore wind energy projects and 796MW of solar energy projects.
The Department issued notices of award for these 82 projects in September 2020. Subsequently 14 projects have withdrawn from RESS-1 consisting of 13 solar projects and one wind project with a total capacity of 187MW (approximately 14% of the auction capacity). The remaining 68 projects, representing 86% of the auction capacity, have entered into implementation agreements and provided performance bonds where appropriate in accordance with the Terms and Conditions. Letters of Offer have been awarded to these projects, which equate to approximately 1,088MW of new renewable generation. This includes seven community projects comprising of five solar and two wind projects.
A number of milestones remain for each project to pass for them to be eligible for support under RESS-1. EirGrid and ESB Networks will be responsible for engagement with applicants to programme the connection to the grid and commissioning of each project.
RESS-1 projects will be supported through the Public Service Obligation (PSO) Levy and projects will be eligible for PSO support upon commercial operation of a RESS-1 project or on 1 July 2021 (whichever is later). The RESS prices achieved in the first competition, with an average bid price of €74.08, represents a significant saving on the previous Renewable Electricity Feed in Tariff schemes. The levels of support provided in 2021 will depend on the volume of projects scheduled to be to connected to the grid in the 2021/22 PSO levy year as well as projected wholesale market prices.
The Department is closely monitoring the development of all RESS 1 projects and the overall programme for delivery of RESS-1.
