Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 29 June 2022
13. Deputy Darren O'Rourke asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications the measures he is taking to ensure gas, liquid and solid fuel supply for winter 2022 in view of ongoing and expected supply challenges; the extent to which his and other Departments are engaged in these efforts; the extent of European and international co-operation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34888/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe European Commission’s RePowerEU Communication of 18 May 2022 sets out measures to end dependence on Russian energy, including: saving energy, diversifying supplies away from Russia, substituting fossil fuels by accelerating Europe’s clean energy transition, removing financial and regulatory barriers to rolling out needed infrastructure, and ensuring Member States have contingency plans to deal with any disruption in supplies from Russia. The European Council meeting of 30th and 31st of May 2022 called on the Council to rapidly examine the Commission proposals to deliver on the REPowerEU objectives and this work is ongoing.
The National Energy Security Framework, published in April 2022, provided a single overarching and initial response to address Ireland’s energy security needs in the context of the war in Ukraine. It coordinates work connected to energy security across the electricity, gas and oil sectors and sets out a ‘Whole-of Government’ response to the challenges posed to energy security and energy affordability.
Although Ireland is not as dependent on Russian gas as other Member States, it is important that we continue to be vigilant and cooperate closely with our European counterparts. In recent weeks Russia has disrupted supplies to an increasing number of EU Member States. Regularly tested emergency plans are in place which could be activated, if necessary, by Gas Networks Ireland - Ireland’s gas transmission system operator (TSO) and designated National Gas Emergency Manager. In addition, there are protocols in place between the UK and Ireland TSOs to deal manage gas supply emergencies
The short to medium term oil supply outlook is positive, with petroleum product availability having improved somewhat in the last few weeks and no major supply difficulties expected by industry in the immediate term. NORA (the National Oil Reserves Agency) currently holds approximately 85 days of oil stocks, the overwhelming majority of which is in the form of physical product, with approximately 85% stored on the island of Ireland.
