Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 7 April 2022
187. Deputy Alan Farrell asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications the efforts being made at European level to reduce dependency on Russian oil and gas; and the role Ireland is playing in the matter. [16097/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe European Council conclusions of 24-25 March 2022 set out that the European Union will phase out its dependency on Russian gas, oil and coal imports as soon as possible (as set out in the Versailles Declaration) and that the European Commission will develop a comprehensive and ambitious plan, on a phased basis, by end of May 2022. In the immediate term, Ireland is continuing to monitor international energy (gas and oil) markets and to consult with its EU and international partners on appropriate measures, if necessary, to ensure energy security in light of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The European Commission is engaging with other countries to ensure sufficient and timely supply of natural gas to the EU from diverse sources across the globe to avoid supply shocks, including those that could result from disruptions.
This crisis in Ukraine has brought into sharp focus the EU and Ireland’s reliance on fossil fuel imports. We must continue to accelerate the clean energy transition, focussing on energy efficiency and renewable energies. The best way to secure our energy needs is to continue to promote energy efficiency and renewable energy. Climate Action Plan 2021 sets us on a pathway to reduce our reliance on imported fossil fuels dramatically by 2030.
In addition, my Department is carrying out a review of the security of energy supply of Ireland’s electricity and natural gas systems. This review is being carried out for the period to 2030, in the context of net zero emissions by no later than 2050. This includes examining potential risks and potential mitigating options for such risks.
