Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 22 March 2022
149. Deputy Cian O'Callaghan asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if he will take action to ensure that apartment renters in district energy complexes can pay residential gas rates instead of more expensive commercial gas rates; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14724/22]
Amharc ar fhreagra150. Deputy Seán Haughey asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if he will urgently review the relevant legislation which classifies district energy users as commercial users rather than residential users given that the mechanism of gas supply to some residential apartment developments is through the district energy mechanism which is resulting in them paying a much higher price for gas due to recent global events; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14738/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 149 and 150 together. Gas prices are not capped in Ireland, and the position of successive Governments, for almost 20 years, has been that competitive energy markets result in greater choice for consumers and businesses. Given recent international developments, however, the importance of moving away from our reliance on imported gas has been underpinned and, instead, we are accelerating the development of renewable energy generation across the country.
The Climate Action Plan 2021 contains actions that will provide a solid basis for the appropriate expansion of district heating in Ireland, including the establishment of a Steering Group to oversee the rollout of district heating and ensure that a robust governance framework is put in place. These actions will also ensure consumer protection, in accordance with legislation.
