Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 26 October 2022
57. Deputy Patrick Costello asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if his Department will examine the feasibility of harvesting the excess heat from the proposed jet engines being bought to add additional capacity; if this could be deployed in a district heating scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53726/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe 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 and my Department.
The CRU 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.
For the second tranche of c.450MW temporary generation, two sites are currently being considered to deliver this additional temporary generation capacity. As set out in the EirGrid, Electricity and Turf (Amendment) Act 2022 the proposed generation units are considered a temporary measure and must be removed by 31 March 2027. These units will, therefore not be available to provide a long term district heating solution for their localities.
My Department has however established a District Heating Steering Group in February, which draws together expertise and experience relevant to district heating from a number of public sector stakeholders. The Steering Group is currently in the process of drafting its Report to Government, in which it will make recommendations to advance district heating projects in the State.
I remain committed to the development of the appropriate regulatory and legislative basis necessary for the expansion of district heating in Ireland and my Department continues to engage with relevant stakeholders in order to accelerate utilisation of this technology in the context of decarbonising of the built environment.
