Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 28 September 2021
228. Deputy Alan Farrell asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications the improvements that are considered necessary to the electricity grid in order to meet Ireland’s climate action targets; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46539/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraMatters relating to the cost of grid investment and projects funded are operational matters for EirGrid and the Commission for Regulation of Utilities (CRU). EirGrid is the transmission system operator and its responsibilities include the appropriate development of the grid and power system to achieve our energy policy objectives and underpin economic development. The CRU is the independent energy regulator and, through a formal price review process, it decides on appropriate spend by EirGrid on a five-year basis. The most recent price review decision by the CRU in December 2020 on the allowable spend on our electricity grid over the next five years signalled a significant and necessary increase in funds for grid enhancement. EirGrid already seeks to optimise the existing electricity grid to minimise the need for new infrastructure through upgrades, refurbishment or up-voltaging of existing infrastructure, where possible. However, in light of the Government's ambition to have at least 70% renewable electricity on the power system by 2030, and with demand profiles increasing as we continue to electrify more sectors of our economy, including heat and transport, further investment in the power grid will be required over the coming decade.
The CRU as part of its oversight has issued a final determination for funding over the next five years to the end of 2025 (PR5 - Price Review 5) which can be found on the CRU website. It indicates a capital investment of €4bn across the transmission and distribution network.
Earlier this year EirGrid carried out a public consultation on 'Shaping our Electricity Future'. The aim is to make the electricity grid stronger and more flexible so that it can carry significantly more renewable generation as well as meet increasing demand from high volume energy users such as data centres. Publication of the outcome of the consultation is expected later this year.
