Seán Sherlock
Ceist:69. Deputy Sean Sherlock asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications the steps that he is taking to protect the public from blackouts and brownouts this autumn and winter. [42484/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThursday, 8 September 2022
Ceisteanna (69)
Freagraí scríofa
The Commission of Regulation of Utilities which has statutory responsibility to ensure security of supply, has the duty to monitor electricity supplies and to take sure measures as it considers necessary to protect the security of supply. It is assisted in its role by EirGrid.
The CRU supported by Eirgrid and my Department currently has a programme of actions underway to ensure the security of our electricity supply over the coming winters. The Security of Supply Programme of actions contains a number of both demand and supply side mitigation measures to address the forecasted shortfall. These actions include; procurement of new, enduring capacity through a number of capacity auctions; procuring additional temporary generation; extending the availability of existing generation capacity; additional use of grid-scale batteries; and improved demand side measures. On 27 June 2022, the CRU published an update on the actions within the programme and this is available on their website.
Margins will remain tight during this coming winter period (2022/2023). The CRU is continuing to work with key stakeholders to implement additional appropriate mitigation measures to further reduce risks during this winter and lower peak demand during this period.