Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 1 June 2021
114. Deputy Réada Cronin asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications the status of the energy security of the State in the context of meeting Ireland's emissions targets under the Climate Action and Low Carbon Development (Amendment) Bill 2021 and Just Transition; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29410/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraA range of State bodies are responsible for ensuring security of energy supply. In the electricity and natural gas sectors, the Commission for Regulation of Utilities, EirGrid and Gas Networks Ireland publish regular reports in relation to security of supply, which are available on their websites. For instance, EirGrid's Generation Capacity Statement, which is published annually, sets out the expected levels of electricity generation and demand for each year over the coming decade. In the oil sector, the National Oil Reserves Agency is responsible for holding stocks of oil equivalent to 90 days of national demand as required under EU law. My Department works with of all of the State bodies to ensure continued security of energy supply. In addition, my Department is currently carrying out a review of the security of energy supply of Ireland’s electricity and natural gas systems. The review is focusing on the period to 2030 in the context of ensuring a sustainable pathway by 2050. This review is taking into account the ambition set out in the Programme for Government which is set out in the Climate Action and Low Carbon Development (Amendment) Bill 2021.
The Government is committed to a just climate transition as part of Ireland’s transition, over the coming decades, to a climate neutral economy. Key objectives for a just climate transition have been set out in the Programme for Government, including the need to deliver alternative job opportunities to sectors and regions most affected and to ensure that vulnerable groups are supported through the transition, as transformative policies are implemented. These objectives, as well as specific proposals for their implementation, will be further articulated in the forthcoming revision to the Climate Action Plan.
