Renewable Energy Generation

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 25 July 2023

Tuesday, 25 July 2023

Ceisteanna (146)

Ruairí Ó Murchú

Ceist:

146. Deputy Ruairí Ó Murchú asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications when, following the report on the feasibility of geothermal as an option for communal heating at places (details supplied), progress will be made on the implementation of the report; if there has been engagement with the SEAI on a possible grant scheme for this and other projects; if the report will be published; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37131/23]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications

At the request of the District Heating Steering Group a research project was initiated to assess the viability of retrofitting an existing communal heating system with a shallow geothermal energy source. An independent consultancy was commissioned by SEAI to undertake this research. The issue of assessing low-carbon technology applications for district heating schemes in an Irish context is a complex one and required a detailed investigation.

The report has been drafted and it offers a set of recommendations which can be undertaken in the short, medium and long term. It will be reviewed and published shortly.

The scheme in question is in private ownership and management, and implementation of any recommendations would be a matter for the relevant parties to consider.

In relation to funding of any renewable energy installation, there are a range of funding programs that could co-fund appropriate installations that may be proposed.