Written Answers Nos. 26-53
26. Deputy Violet-Anne Wynne asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if the Government will be prepared to target subsidies to help compensate businesses for loss of operations in the extreme circumstance of energy blackouts; if not, if the Government will intervene in such circumstances; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46746/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Commission of Regulation of Utilities (CRU), 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 this role by EirGrid, the electricity transmission system operator. The CRU, currently has a programme of actions underway to ensure the security of our electricity supply over the coming winters. The programme, which was published in September 2021, contains a number of both demand-side and supply-side mitigation measures to address any potential shortfall. On 27 June 2022, the CRU published an update on the actions within the programme and this is available on their website. The CRU is continuing to work with key stakeholders to implement additional appropriate mitigation measures to further reduce risks this winter and lower peak demand during this period.
In the extreme event that electricity demand exceeds supply, EirGrid and ESB Networks have emergency plans in place with detailed procedures to safely operate the system. There are no plans to provide subsidies as compensation in the case there are power cuts.
The Government is acutely aware of the importance of protecting jobs, in order to protect businesses, during this energy crisis and in the budget has introduced a new temporary Business Energy Support Scheme of up to €10,000 per company to help meet rising energy costs. The scheme will support eligible companies, covering up to 40% of the increase in their energy bills.
27. Deputy Violet-Anne Wynne asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if he will explore the possibility of decoupling the price paid to renewable energy and other suppliers from that of the increasing wholesale price of gas (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46747/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department continues to consider options to reduce the impact of increasing international wholesale gas prices on Irish electricity consumers. It is critical to ensure that consumers receive the benefit of windfall gains in the electricity sector resulting from the war in Ukraine.
Earlier this month the European Commission published a proposal for a Council Regulation on an emergency intervention to address high energy prices. This proposal will assist Government in determining whether and, if so, how a windfall tax and other interventions could be introduced, having regard to the overall approach to be adopted at EU level. The monies raised from such interventions would be used to mitigate the impact of the high electricity prices on the final electricity customers. Officials from my Department continue to work with colleagues from across Government and at level EU on these issues.
Furthermore, the European Commission is carrying out ongoing work concerning the long-term market design as announced in it's Communication on Short-Term Energy Market Interventions and Long-Term Improvements to the Electricity Market Design that was issued alongside the Repower EU Plan of 18 May 2022.
Ireland operates within the all-island Single Electricity Market (SEM) and given the electricity market operates across two jurisdictions all impacts, intentional or otherwise, must be considered prior to making any changes to it.
The best, long-term approach for Ireland to lower energy prices is to reduce our dependency on imported fossil fuels, through investment in indigenous renewable energy sources which aligns with the Government's target of up to 80% of electricity to come from renewable sources by 2030.
28. Deputy Violet-Anne Wynne asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if a windfall tax on energy suppliers will be introduced in the short-term; if this tax will be linked to the profits derived from energy sources other than the costs associated with wholesale gas purchases; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46748/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraIncreased wholesale gas prices, which are mainly caused by Russia reducing supplies to Europe and the war in Ukraine, are leading to unprecedented increases in electricity and gas prices for households and businesses.
They are also leading to windfall gains for some energy companies across Europe, particularly those companies involved in the production of fossil fuels and those who are producing energy at a much lower cost that the cost of gas.
At the Council of Energy Ministers meeting on 9 September, which I attended, the issue of windfall gains was discussed in some detail. Outline proposals were discussed and the Council of Energy Ministers invited the European Commission to make formal proposals.
On 14 September the European Commission published a proposed regulation which includes measures aimed at addressing windfall gains in the electricity sector and in fossil fuel production. This proposal is expected to raise additional revenues which will be used to reduce the cost of energy for households and businesses.
The proposal is currently being negotiated throughout and is expected to be finalised and approved at a meeting of the Council of Energy Ministers on 30 September. I fully support the objectives of this proposal and am working to ensure it fully addresses the issues of windfall gains in Ireland.
29. Deputy Violet-Anne Wynne asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications the way that he will ensure that Ireland will receive enough to supplement the national effort to address the pressing issue of energy costs as the European Union introduces community-wide supports, policies and initiatives that lessen the impact of the energy crisis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46751/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraRussia's unjustified and unprovoked war against Ukraine has highly impacted energy in Europe. EU countries are closely coordinating actions to tackle these rising prices and secure our energy. I attended the Extraordinary Energy Council meeting on 9 September 2022 to exchange views on the energy situation in the EU. The meeting was split into two parts, the first sessions covering policy options to alleviate the burden of high energy prices and the second session on the state of play of the preparedness of Member States for the coming winter.
In respect of the extremely high energy prices discussion, the Council covered four main areas in which the Member States expect the Commission to act. These include capping the revenues of electricity producers that face low production costs; a possible price cap on gas; measures for a coordinated electricity demand reduction across the EU and measures that would help to solve the issue of decreased liquidity.
The Commission have since proposed legislation and this is already under urgent negotiation by Member States in order to have agreement by the end of the month. We are supportive of the overall approach being taken by the Commission and will cooperate closely with other Member States to get the Regulation agreed swiftly.
The Council also covered Member States preparedness for this winter. Member States have carried out several actions both at national and EU level. They have in particular adopted a regulation to fill gas storages and share them in a spirit of solidarity, diversified supply sources and committed to reducing gas demand by 15% this winter. EU underground gas reserves have been filled to 82.5% of their capacity, well ahead of the 1 November deadline set in the gas storage regulation.
30. Deputy Carol Nolan asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications when the ban on the commercial sale of turf will come into effect; the other fuel types that will be affected by the proposed ban; if commercial operators will be allowed a grace period beyond the date of the ban; the penalties that commercial operators will incur if they continue to sell beyond the ban date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46578/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe new solid fuel regulations will come into force on 31 October this year and will introduce minimum quality standards that will apply to all solid fuels distributed throughout the State. This will ensure that the most polluting can no longer be made available on the Irish market and will assist the public in transitioning to less polluting alternatives.
The new regulations are necessary as each year some 1,300 people die prematurely in Ireland due to air pollution from solid fuel burning. It is estimated that there are over 16,200 life years lost, while many people also experience a poor quality of life due to the associated short-term and long-term health impacts of this form of pollution.
While the regulations will not impinge upon traditional local practices associated with sod peat, the sale of turf from retail premises, on the internet and by means of other media will not be permitted.
The regulations will also prohibit the sale or other distribution of:
- Coal products and manufactured solid fuels with a smoke emission rate of greater than 10 grams per hour;
- Manufactured part biomass products with a smoke emission rate of greater than 5 grams per hour;
- Coal products and manufactured solid fuels, including manufactured part biomass products, with sulphur content greater than 2% by weight on a dry ash-free basis; and
-100% biomass products, including wood products and wood logs, supplied in units of two cubic metres or less, with a moisture content of greater than 25% (moving to 20% with effect from 1 September 2025).
In addition, wood logs supplied in units more than two cubic metres will be required to be accompanied by a notice giving instructions on how to dry the wood.
There will be no period of grace for any solid fuel producer or retailer after the effective date of the regulations. Officials from my Department have continued to work with industry and retailers to prepare for the new regulatory framework and more information for the sector, including FAQs, is available at www.gov.ie/cleanair
Enforcement actions will be a matter for Local Authorities and non-compliance with the provisions of the solid fuel regulations will incur penalties, as provided for by the Air Pollution Act 1987. Once the regulations are introduced, initial enforcement efforts will focus on working with and providing assistance to retailers in understanding and complying with their obligations under new regulatory framework.
31. Deputy Bríd Smith asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if his attention has been drawn to gas prices paid by some residents connected to district heating systems that seem to have risen by disproportionate amounts in recent months, even compared to the general trend; if his Department will examine this; if district heat schemes are covered by the Commission for Regulation of Utilities guidelines and regulations in relation to customers having energy supplies cut-off for non-payment et cetera; if the CRU has any role in the price setting et cetera of such DHSs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46588/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraIn cases where apartment blocks or housing developments are supplied with heat, rather than fuel, it is the heat supplier that is the purchaser of the fuel used. Therefore, where gas is being used, a commercial tariff is applied due to scale of purchase.
Gas and electricity retail markets in Ireland operate within a European regulatory regime wherein those markets are commercial, liberalised, and competitive. Group heating schemes do not fall under protections from disconnection for non-payment of account that apply to residential customers.
I am acutely aware of the impact that current, internationally influenced, energy price increases are having on people and families, and, for that reason, Government has put in place a series of measures with funding of €2.4 billion available to help alleviate the impact, particularly on lower income households. Further measures are being considered in the context of Budget 2023.
In addition, a District Heating Steering Group was established earlier this year. The Steering Group has met eight times to date and oversees a number of Working Groups that are conducting in-depth, solutions-based analysis of the key areas that must be addressed in order to support district heating. The Steering Group is working on recommendations to ensure that a robust governance and regulatory framework is put in place to support the expansion of district heating. This will help ensure consumer protection, and considerations in this regard encompass legacy group heating schemes that are already in operation.
Furthermore, the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland will soon initiate a pilot feasibility study to explore the technical viability and implications of moving existing group heating schemes to renewable energy sources. This will inform the work of the Steering Group, which is due to bring its report to Government later this year.
32. Deputy Denise Mitchell asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if he will ensure that funds are made available as requested by Dublin City Council to tackle the illegal dump at a location (details supplied). [46592/22]
Amharc ar fhreagra33. Deputy Michael Fitzmaurice asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications the reason that rural customers should pay a higher standing-charge than urban users; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46599/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe electricity and gas retail markets in Ireland operate within a European Union regulatory regime wherein electricity and gas markets are commercial, liberalised, and competitive. Operating within this overall EU framework, responsibility for the regulation of the electricity and gas markets, including the matters raised by the Deputy, is solely a matter for the Commission for Regulation of Utilities (CRU), which was assigned responsibility for the regulation of the Irish electricity and gas markets following the enactment of the Electricity Regulation Act (ERA), 1999. The CRU is an independent statutory regulator and is accountable for the performance of its functions to the Oireachtas, and not to me as Minister.In line with long standing policy on deregulating price setting, CRU ended its regulation of retail prices in the electricity market in 2011, and in the gas market in 2014. Given that prices are no longer regulated, they are set by all suppliers as entirely commercial and operational matters by them. Each such company has its own different approach to pricing decisions over time, in accordance with factors such as their overall company strategic direction and developments in their cost base.
34. Deputy Catherine Connolly asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications the status of the National Retrofit Steering Group, pursuant to the National Retrofit Plan; the membership of the group; the number of times that it has met to date; the dates of the meetings; the terms of reference of the group; if minutes are taken in respect of the meetings of the group; if so, if they are published; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46683/22]
Amharc ar fhreagra35. Deputy Catherine Connolly asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if he will provide details of the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland scheme, of the number of homes upgraded to a B2 BER or better to date in 2022, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46684/22]
Amharc ar fhreagra36. Deputy Catherine Connolly asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if he will provide details of the progress to date on achieving the target of 500,000 homes retrofitted to a BER of B2 cost optimal or carbon equivalent; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46685/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions No. 34 to 36, inclusive, together.
In February the Government approved a package of supports to make it easier and more affordable for homeowners to undertake home energy upgrades – for warmer, healthier and more comfortable homes with lower energy bills. This is widely considered to be one of the most ambitious retrofitting programmes in Europe.
The measures address barriers to undertaking energy upgrades (retrofits) reported by homeowners and those working in the industry. They also reflect the step-change needed – in pace and scale of delivery – to achieve our target of 500,000 home energy upgrades, to B2 Building Energy Rating (BER) standard, by 2030. The changes represent an important step in delivery of the National Retrofit Plan, which identifies a range of measures aimed at driving demand for retrofit, expanding the size and capacity of the supply chain, as well as making retrofits more affordable.
The enhanced package of measures to support the uptake of home energy upgrades include:
- A new National Home Energy Upgrade Scheme providing increased grant levels of up to 50% of the cost of a typical deep retrofit to a B2 BER standard.
- Establishment of a network of registered One Stop Shops to offer a start-to-finish project management service, including access to financing, for home energy upgrades.
- A significant increase in the number of free energy upgrades provided to those at risk of energy poverty alongside changes to the operation of the Warmer Homes Scheme. This includes ensuring the Scheme prioritises those in the worst performing homes first and opening the Scheme for homeowner ‘revisits’ thereby allowing them apply for deeper energy upgrade measures now available under the scheme.
- A special enhanced grant rate, equivalent to 80% of the typical cost, for attic and cavity wall insulation has also been introduced for all households. This will help to urgently reduce energy use as part of the Government’s response to current exceptionally high energy prices.
The investment this year targets almost 27,000 home energy upgrades, including over 8,600 homes to a BER of B2.
Figures provided by the SEAI show that to the end of August 13,406 homes have been completed across the residential energy efficiency schemes (up 70% compared to the same period last year) and of these, 4,234 have been upgraded to a post works Building Energy Rating (BER) of B2 or better (up almost 140% compared to the same period last year).
The number of free upgrades provided under the Warmer Homes Scheme each month has more than doubled versus last year. As of the end of August, 2,642 homes have been completed under the Warmer Homes Scheme, and of these 86 have been upgraded to a post works Building Energy Rating (BER) of B2 or better.
In addition, since the announcements in February, demand across the SEAI residential and community retrofit schemes has been exceptionally high with a very significant increase in the number of applications year to date when compared to the same period in 2021. Over 30,000 applications for grant support have been received by the SEAI – a 140% increase on the same period last year and this strong pipeline of projects is translating into delivery for the remainder of this year and into 2023.
In relation to heat pumps, across all schemes the number of installations for the years in question are as follows: this year to the end of August: 1,049 and for the years 2019, 2020 & 2021: 1,200, 1,640 and 2,010 respectively.
To accelerate delivery in a number of key areas I am establishing a number of cross government/agency delivery taskforces, to accelerate and drive delivery in key programme areas, one of which, as outlined in the National Energy Security Framework, will focus on the heat sector and built environment. The Heat and Built Environment Delivery Taskforce’s draft Terms of Reference, membership and work programme are currently being finalised, with a view to a meeting of the Taskforce taking place in October 2022.
The aim of the Heat and Built Environment Taskforce will be to accelerate and drive delivery with a focus on:
- Retrofitting;
- Renewable Heat;
- District Heating; and,
- Decarbonisation of Ireland’s building stock.
It is envisaged that the Taskforce will identify all aspects of work on the critical path to accelerate and drive delivery, to ensure alignment in the development of polices and activities underway across Government Departments and to proactively manage risks to ensure targets are achieved. My Department also engages with relevant Government Departments on an ongoing basis in relation to implementation of the National Retrofit Plan.
37. Deputy Catherine Connolly asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications the number of heat pumps installed in existing premises in each of the years from 2019 to 2021 and to date in 2022; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46686/22]
Amharc ar fhreagra38. Deputy Gino Kenny asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if his attention has been drawn to the concerns of energy users who will have submitted gas and electricity meter readings for August and September 2022 and who are concerned that they will be subjected to the 30% plus price increase rates for the remainder of the month and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46694/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraGovernment is acutely aware of the impact of high electricity and gas prices, and has introduced a range of measures to mitigate their impact.The most immediate factor affecting electricity prices in Ireland and Europe is high international gas prices where we are a price taker.
Gas prices are now unprecedentedly high, which feeds directly through to retail electricity prices as the wholesale price of electricity correlates strongly with the price of gas.
Government has already put a €2.4 billion package of policies and measures in place to support people and continues to monitor this unprecedented and evolving situation closely to inform ongoing consideration of further action, particularly in the context of the imminent Budget 2023.
As Minister, I meet with a range of stakeholders across the energy sector, where affordability of electricity and gas is a priority issue.
Responsibility for the regulation of the retail electricity and gas markets was assigned to the Commission for the Regulation of Utilities under the 1999 Electricity Regulation Act and subsequent legislation.
As part of its statutory role, the CRU also has responsibility for consumer protection functions with regard to electricity and gas and as part of its statutory role, the CRU also has consumer protection functions and regularly updates the Electricity and Gas Suppliers' Handbook which sets out obligations on electricity and gas suppliers. The matter outlined by the Deputy is detailed in Section 4 Code of Practice on Billing CRU21111a-Electricity-and-Gas-Suppliers-Handbook-2021.pdf
As part of its consumer protection functions, the CRU has detailed interaction with energy providers on an ongoing basis. On foot of this and Response 6 of the National Energy Security Framework, on 25 August the CRU announced enhanced consumer protection measures to be implemented by electricity and gas providers ahead of the coming winter.
The CRU is accountable directly to the Oireachtas and has a dedicated email address for Oireachtas members: oireachtas@cru.ie.
39. Deputy Violet-Anne Wynne asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if he will consider a price cap to be implemented whereby Government agrees to subsidise energy costs above a certain cap limit in order to give some stability and certainty to businesses and consumers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46723/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe electricity and gas retail markets in Ireland operate within a European Union regulatory regime wherein electricity and gas markets are commercial, liberalised, and competitive.Operating within this overall EU framework, responsibility for the regulation of the electricity and gas markets, including the matters raised by the Deputy, is solely a matter for the Commission for Regulation of Utilities (CRU), which was assigned responsibility for the regulation of the Irish electricity and gas markets following the enactment of the Electricity Regulation Act (ERA), 1999.
The CRU is an independent statutory regulator and is accountable for the performance of its functions to the Oireachtas, and not to me as Minister.In line with long standing policy on deregulating price setting, CRU ended its regulation of retail prices in the electricity market in 2011, and in the gas market in 2014.
Given that prices are no longer regulated, they are set by all suppliers as entirely commercial and operational matters by them. Each such company has its own different approach to pricing decisions over time, in accordance with factors such as their overall company strategic direction and developments in their cost base.
Any major interference in the energy market would need to be carefully considered to avoid potentially further disrupting a market that is already facing significant challenges and exposing the Exchequer, and ultimately the taxpayer, to potentially unquantifiable costs. Any action would also have to be considered in the context of the EU as a whole. Following an Emergency Energy Council Meeting on the 9th of September the EU Commission has proposed potential additional measures which include capping the revenues of inframarginal electricity producers. These are very important developments, and I will be working very closely with my EU counterparts over the coming weeks on these proposals.
The Government is acutely aware of the impacts of rising energy costs on consumers and further detailed measures are being prepared in the context of Budget 2023. I am also working with colleagues across Government to understand the impact of energy prices on business and to support Government in developing the necessary responses.
40. Deputy Violet-Anne Wynne asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if he will provide clarity on the Government’s approach to national energy policy and security of supply over the winter period; the steps that he will take to alleviate the impact of huge energy price increases on homes, farms and businesses; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46725/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Commission of Regulation of Utilities (CRU), which has statutory responsibility to ensure security of electricity supply, currently has a programme of actions underway to ensure the security of our electricity supply over the coming winters. The programme, which was published in September 2021, contains a number of both demand-side and supply-side mitigation measures to address any potential shortfall. 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 this winter and lower peak demand during this period.
The Government is acutely aware of the impact on customers of high electricity and gas prices and has already implemented a €2.4 billion package of policies and measures to support energy customers. These supports included an Electricity Costs credit which was applied to over 2.1 million domestic electricity accounts, a reduction in VAT on electricity and gas bills from 13.5% to 9% and increases to the Fuel Allowance. However, the Government recognises that more needs to be done as prices continue to increase and additional measures to support households and businesses are being examined in the context of the forthcoming Budget.
The best long-term approach for Ireland to insulate consumers from volatility on international wholesale energy markets is to invest in energy efficiency, renewable energy and expand interconnection with European and neighbouring markets.
41. Deputy Violet-Anne Wynne asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if the Government will improve the procedures, systems and supports that are in place to enable businesses to sell surplus energy supplies back to the national grid (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46727/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Commission of Regulation of Utilities (CRU), which has statutory responsibility to ensure security of electricity supply, currently has a programme of actions underway to ensure the security of our electricity supply over the coming winters. The programme, which was published in September 2021, contains a number of both demand-side and supply-side mitigation measures to address any potential shortfall. 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 this winter and lower peak demand during this period.
The Government is acutely aware of the impact on customers of high electricity and gas prices and has already implemented a €2.4 billion package of policies and measures to support energy customers. These supports included an Electricity Costs credit which was applied to over 2.1 million domestic electricity accounts, a reduction in VAT on electricity and gas bills from 13.5% to 9% and increases to the Fuel Allowance. However, the Government recognises that more needs to be done as prices continue to increase and additional measures to support households and businesses are being examined in the context of the forthcoming Budget.
The best long-term approach for Ireland to insulate consumers from volatility on international wholesale energy markets is to invest in energy efficiency, renewable energy and expand interconnection with European and neighbouring markets.
42. Deputy Violet-Anne Wynne asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if he has considered a comprehensive national education and awareness campaign related to energy conservation and efficiency aimed at both the residential and business sectors; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46729/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraIn April this year the Government launched the Reduce Your Use energy efficiency campaign. The national media campaign is aimed at empowering people to reduce their energy use and encourage long-term sustainable behaviour, details of the campaign can be found at www.gov.ie/en/campaigns/6ca43-reduce-your-use/.
The key campaign messaging highlights how increased wholesale gas prices, which are mainly caused by Russia reducing supplies to Europe and the war in Ukraine, are leading to unprecedented increases in electricity and gas prices for households and businesses, and how as a result, now more than ever, we need to be mindful of how we use energy in our daily lives.
The campaign also highlights the range of Government supports that are available for households and businesses to assist with rising energy costs, and encourages people to take actions in their own homes.
The initial phase has already been completed, with advertisements running in print, on radio and across social media for 13 weeks from April through the Summer period. A second phase will commence this autumn. Across October-to-April, the ‘Reduce Your Use’ campaign will continue with a significantly increased national media footprint.
The public sector must lead on energy conservation, in that regard Government recently approved a suite of energy-efficiency measures across the public sector. All public sector bodies will, from this month, take a leading role in lowering their energy consumption and costs. Public sector organisations will be supported with energy awareness resources, including online seminars, live webinars and one-to-one online energy clinics. Energy efficiency advice within the campaign is provided by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI). It is practical and evidenced-based, detailing what actions can help to save the most money and energy.
The campaign is a key part of the Government's wider approach under the National Energy Security Framework (www.gov.ie/en/publication/ea9e4-national-energy-security-framework/).
43. Deputy Violet-Anne Wynne asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if he has considered if greater investment in renewables should be made a Government priority to offset the consequent short-term impact on greenhouse gases; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46731/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Climate Action Plan 2021 and annex of actions sets out a roadmap to deliver on Ireland's target of a 51% greenhouse gas emissions reduction by the 2030 including a suite of measures and actions to increase the share of electricity demand generated from renewable sources to up to 80%. The Renewable Electricity Support Scheme (RESS) is one of the major Government policies to help deliver on this.
RESS 1 is expected to deliver 1,022MW of new renewable generation, 569MW of solar and 453MW of wind, an approximate 15% increase in Ireland’s current renewable energy generation capacity by the end of 2023.To date, 11 projects equalling 353MW of new renewable generation have already connected to the grid under RESS 1, meaning renewable energy capacity connected to the grid in Ireland is now above 5GW.
The second RESS auction (RESS 2) was held this year and is expected to deliver an increase of nearly 20% in Ireland’s renewable energy generation.80 projects were initially successful in RESS 2 and the competition is expected to lead to 300 MW of wind and almost 1,500 MW of solar connected in 2024/25, with additional corporate power purchase agreements likely to support the development of further wind and solar generation.
Design of the RESS 3 auction is also currently under development to further contribute to the up to 80% target. My Department is also finalising the Terms and Conditions on the first of three planned auctions this decade for the Offshore Renewable Electricity Support Scheme (ORESS). A roadmap of future auctions which sets out the indicative timelines and volumes for onshore and offshore auctions over the coming decade was published in December 2021.
The Climate Action Plan 2021 also commits to achieving at least 5GW of offshore wind by 2030. The Government has recently agreed to increase our ambition in offshore wind energy, moving from 5GW to 7GW, with the additional 2GW earmarked for the supply of green hydrogen, a strategy for which is under development.
Achieving climate targets through accelerating deployment of renewable energy sources will entail investment of tens of billions of euro, including in the installation and maintenance of generation assets, and associated infrastructure and services, as well as in the development of supply chains and port infrastructure.
44. Deputy Violet-Anne Wynne asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications the steps that his Department is taking to develop offshore energy exploration off the west coast of Ireland given that priority appears to be given to the east coast at present despite the vast potential of the western seaboard with its higher proportion and scale of wind; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46733/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department is leading in delivering significant legislative, regulatory and policy developments to meet Ireland’s legally binding climate objectives and accelerate the deployment of offshore renewable energy.
The Government has committed to developing a longer-term plan to harness the estimated potential of at least 30GW of offshore floating wind power in our Atlantic waters. In this context, earlier this month, the European Union North Seas Energy Cooperation (NSEC), which is currently co-chaired by Ireland, agreed a non-binding target of 260GW by 2050 for the EU's North Seas, with non-binding targets of 15-20GW by 2040 and 37GW by 2050 for Ireland. The Government has recently agreed to target the delivery of an additional 2GW of offshore wind dedicated to the production of green hydrogen. This is in addition to the existing 2030 target of 5GW of offshore wind energy from 5GW, as set out in the Climate Action Plan 2021, being developed to achieve our goal of up to 80% of electricity coming from renewable sources by 2030.
The early phases of the offshore energy development will be primarily located off our eastern and southern coasts reflecting the suitably shallower waters in these regions for deployment of fixed bottom wind turbines, the availability of electricity grid infrastructure capacity, and proximity to the largest demand centres. It is envisaged that advances in floating turbine technology will aid the cost-effective deployment of renewables in deeper waters off the west coast.
The Maritime Area Planning (MAP) Act 2021 (enacted in December 2021) provides a legislative basis to harness the potential of offshore renewable energy outside the 12 nautical mile coastal zone provided for in the Foreshore Act (1933), while protecting our rich and unique marine environment. A consultation will shortly conclude on how the second batch of Offshore Renewable Energy projects (Phase Two) will be selected to enter the new consenting system. This includes a proposal to allow for an Innovation Category which may be of specific interest to developers of floating offshore wind energy designs.
A new Offshore Renewable Energy Development Plan (OREDP II) will be published in early 2023. The OREDP II will assess Ireland’s offshore energy resource potential, including for floating wind off the west coast. It will provide an evidence base to identify areas most suitable for the sustainable development of fixed and floating wind, wave, and tidal technologies in the Irish Exclusive Economic Zone, while also considering other maritime activities and marine biodiversity. The OREDP II will support the intended development of offshore wind energy off the Atlantic coast accordingly.
45. Deputy Violet-Anne Wynne asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if he will report on the national policy and regulations on offshore energy creation and the need for it to be fast-tracked and clearly enunciated by Government and Government agencies; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46735/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department is leading on significant legislative, regulatory and policy developments to meet Ireland’s legally binding climate objectives and accelerate the deployment of offshore renewable energy (ORE). This is vital to Ireland’s green energy transition, reducing our dependency on imported fossil fuels, lowering greenhouse gas emissions, ensuring security of supply and managing energy prices.
The Government has recently agreed to increase our 5GW ambition for offshore wind energy, with an additional 2GW dedicated to green hydrogen production. Furthermore, the Programme for Government includes a commitment to develop a longer-term plan to harness the estimated potential of at least 30GW of offshore floating wind power in our Atlantic waters. The North Seas Energy Cooperation (NSEC) recently agreed a non-binding target of 260GW by 2050 for the North Seas, with non-binding targets of 15-20GW by 2040 and 37GW by 2050 for Ireland.
The Maritime Area Planning (MAP) Act 2021 provides the legal authority for the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications to assess Maritime Area Consent (MAC) applications from a set of pre-qualified offshore renewable energy projects. This work is in progress, with decisions on the first MACs to be made this year, allowing successful projects to apply for planning permission from An Bord Pleanála. All applications will involve a robust assessment of project specific details, include environmental assessment and full public consultation.
Consultation will shortly conclude on the criteria to select a second batch of ORE projects to enter the new maritime consenting system, enabling delivery on our 2030 targets.
An updated Offshore Renewable Energy Development Plan will be published in early 2023. It will assess Ireland’s offshore energy resource potential and provide an evidence base to facilitate the identification of areas most suitable for the sustainable development of ORE, while also considering other maritime activities and marine biodiversity.suitable for the sustainable development of fixed and floating wind, wave, and tidal technologies in the Irish Exclusive Economic Zone, while also considering other maritime activities and marine biodiversity. The OREDP II will support the intended development of offshore wind energy off the Atlantic coast accordingly.
46. Deputy Violet-Anne Wynne asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if he will report on the opportunity for Ireland to become an international leader on offshore energy creation providing a comprehensive and clear cut regime is quickly put in place (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46737/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Climate Action Plan 2021 commits to achieving at least 5GW of offshore wind by 2030. The Government has recently agreed to increase our ambition in offshore wind energy with an additional 2GW earmarked for the supply of green hydrogen, a strategy for which is under development.
With Ireland’s maritime area seven times the size of its landmass and our location at the edge of the Atlantic Ocean, the potential for offshore renewable energy (ORE) is enormous. My Department continues to work to realise this potential in line with our targets and identified actions. As part of this, I have established a cross-Departmental Offshore Wind Delivery Taskforce in order to accelerate and drive delivery and capture the wider and longer term economic and business opportunities associated with the development of ORE in Ireland.
The Maritime Area Regulatory Authority (MARA) will be established in early 2023. In the interim, the Maritime Area Planning Act 2021 provides the legal authority for the Minister of the Environment, Climate and Communications to assess Maritime Area Consent (MAC) applications from a set of pre-qualified offshore renewable energy projects. Decisions on the first MACs will be issued this year, allowing successful projects to apply for planning permission from An Bord Pleanála.
My Department has held a consultation on the criteria for the second batch of offshore projects required to meet our 2030 offshore energy targets, with a decision on these criteria to be taken later this year.
The Programme for Government commits to developing a longer-term plan to realise the potential of at least 30GW of offshore floating wind power in our Atlantic waters. Work is in progress on updating the first Offshore Renewable Energy Development Plan. It will provide an evidence base for identifying the most suitable areas for the sustainable development of offshore renewable energy beyond 2030 and will be an important planning tool as Ireland transitions to an enduring plan-led regime for offshore renewable energy beyond 2030.
To facilitate this overarching ambition, my Department will continue to support development of regional offshore electricity grids and engagement with viable proposed new offshore infrastructure projects, including electricity interconnectors.
47. Deputy Violet-Anne Wynne asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications the steps that the Government is taking to seriously consider and explore alternative options for energy storage and provision in Ireland especially for those in rural Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46739/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraElectricity storage encompasses a broad range of technologies with distinct characteristics and capabilities, including speed of response and storage capacity, that provide a variety of critical services to the all-island power system. Maintaining security of supply while integrating greater levels of renewable generation will require a very high penetration of variable electricity on the Irish grid, with increased electricity storage capacity providing a low-carbon substitute for high greenhouse gas emitting fossil fuels.
EirGrid has reported that a number of battery storage projects have been contracted via two mechanisms: SEM Capacity Auctions and DS3 Systems Services. There is currently approximately 500MW of short-duration batteries on the all-island system providing system services, as well as 292MW of pumped hydro storage. In order to further support energy storage development throughout Ireland, my Department has committed to develop an energy storage policy framework which is due for publication early next year. To help inform the development of this framework a public consultation will issue shortly.
Hydrogen storage could also have a significant role to play in power generation as a form of long-term electricity storage, with hydrogen potentially being used as a backup to renewables to generate electricity during periods of low renewable availability. In July, my Department launched a public consultation to gather the views of stakeholders to inform the development of a hydrogen strategy for Ireland which will be published later this year. Among the issues addressed was the question of hydrogen storage and responses were invited on a range of questions as to how Ireland might best develop hydrogen storage capacity.
My Department is also currently undertaking a review of the security of supply of Ireland’s electricity and natural gas systems. This review includes the identification of potential options to mitigate risks to security of supply, including different forms of energy storage. As part of this review, my Department recently launched a consultation to seek views from interested parties.
Finally, over the course of the next decade all energy users across Ireland will be invited to adopt new approaches to using and conserving energy, including changing how they generate, store and consume electricity. One example of this is ESB Network’s National Network, Local Connections programme which will be critical in creating a dynamic energy system and will explore the role of storage, among other flexibility drivers, in optimising the system for consumers across Ireland.
48. Deputy Violet-Anne Wynne asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if he will report on the National Broadband roll-out and the fact that some residences (details supplied) in County Clare have been left without a broadband service. [46741/22]
Amharc ar fhreagra49. Deputy Violet-Anne Wynne asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if he plans to remove the PSO levy in order to assist businesses that are struggling with increasing energy costs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46743/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe PSO is an important instrument to support renewable electricity development and underpin the investment needed to meet Ireland's target of 80% of electricity demand to be met from renewable energy sources by 2030.
The Government agreed in the National Energy Security Framework published in April to reduce the Public Service Obligation (PSO) Levy to zero by October 2022. In addition, the Government introduced legislation to in July via the EirGrid, Electricity and Turf (Amendment) Act 2022 to allow for PSO payments to be made to consumers where Commission for Regulation of Utilities (CRU) determines that there is a benefit to be paid to final customers in a particular PSO period.
CRU’s Decision Paper on the PSO Levy for 2022/23 (www.cru.ie/document_group/decision-paper-public-service-obligation-levy-2022-23/) determined that the amount for the upcoming PSO Year 2022/23 is a payment to electricity consumers of €491.25 million. This benefit will equate to the following:
- €89.10 per annum per domestic customer,
- €311.51 per annum for small commercial customer, and
- €37.82 per annum per kVA for medium/large customers.
The CRU have advised that the payment to final customers will not be feasible starting 1 October 2022. However, the CRU, in conjunction with relevant stakeholders, is working to ensure that billing and invoice arrangements can be urgently put in place to enable payments to customers as soon as possible within the 2022/23 PSO period. In the interim, as of October 1st, 2022, the CRU is setting the PSO levy to zero.
50. Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications the position in relation to an application by a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46758/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Better Energy Warmer Homes Scheme delivers free energy upgrades for eligible homeowners in low-income households who are most at risk of energy poverty. It is administered by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI). Since the start of the scheme in 2000, over 145,000 free upgrades have been supported by the scheme.
As Minister I have no function with regard to individual applications to the grant schemes administered by SEAI on behalf of my Department. The SEAI has established a specific email address for queries from Oireachtas members so that such queries can be addressed promptly, in line with SEAI’s objective to deliver services to the highest standards. The email address is oireachtas@seai.ie
51. Deputy Kathleen Funchion asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications the measures that he is taking to ensure that refuse companies do not continue to increase their costs for consumers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46796/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraI refer to the reply to Question No 113 of 20th September 2022. The position is unchanged.
52. Deputy Paul Donnelly asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications the number of full-time staff working in the National Cyber Security Centre as of 1 January 2021 and 20 September 2022, in tabular form. [46836/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), located within my Department, plays an important role in providing advice and guidance to public bodies and critical infrastructure, monitoring and analysing cyber security threats and co-ordinating the response to major cyber security incidents. The NCSC is composed of highly skilled, specialist technical civilian staff, with skillsets in areas such as computer science, software engineering, malware analysis, information technology forensics, cryptography, software development, and cyber security compliance, as well as general cyber security skills.
The current levels of staffing are contained in the table below:
|
Date |
Number of Staff |
|
01 Jan 2022 |
24 |
|
20 Sept 2022 |
37 |
The Government has agreed the overall full-time staffing complement of the NCSC will be increased to 45 by the end of this year and to at least 70 over the next 5 years.
53. Deputy Eoin Ó Broin asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications the policy decisions that were made on the report by the Rental Sector Energy Efficiency Advisory Group’s recommendations. [46912/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraIn the residential rental sector, the so called ‘split-incentive’ issue can arise when incentives to invest in energy efficiency upgrades are misaligned between landlords and tenants. The Department undertook a public consultation in late 2019 and early 2020 on the split-incentive issue as it impacts on the objective to improve energy efficiency standards in the rental sector. The consultation sought to identify the most appropriate policy interventions and to provide stakeholders with an opportunity to inform this consideration.
The findings from the consultation have informed the development of a number of new measures aimed at improving the energy efficiency of the rental sector including:
- The Government’s Housing for All Plan commits to the introduction of a minimum BER for private rental properties, where feasible, from 2025, and to develop a roadmap to implement these standards;
- The SEAI administered Community Energy Grant Scheme now includes retrofitting rental properties as an objective of the scheme to further encourage and support the retrofitting of these properties;
- The National Home Energy Upgrade Scheme, launched in February 2022, which offers grants of up to 50% of the total cost of upgrades to B2 BER is available to private landlords and Approved Housing Bodies;
- Private landlords can also avail of new increased rates of grant support to upgrade their rental properties on a step-by-step basis under the Better Energy Homes Scheme, including 80% grants for attic and cavity wall insulation.
It is also intended that non-corporate landlords will be able to avail of the planned low-cost loan scheme for retrofit when it is launched shortly.
It should also be noted that the Housing for All plan commits to the retrofitting of 36,500 local authority homes by 2030 as part of the achievement of the Climate Action Plan retrofit targets.
