Mr. Jim Gannon:

I think, although EirGrid might correct me, that three of them are for EirGrid. I will respond to those directed at us first. The question on the interconnector would be for EirGrid, which has the most up-to-date information on progress on that project. The questions about where the local challenges are on the grid and perhaps the temporary generation project are also for EirGrid.

The RESS auctions are led by the Department in terms of time limits. We and EirGrid participate in the steering group for that but the setting of the rhythm is a question for the Department rather than us.

On the Deputy's request for examples, some developers noted that, despite going through the statutory processes, it might have taken more time than they anticipated. It is a common refrain regarding infrastructural delivery here. Part of helping that might be setting policy signals, such as in the national development plan, noting the place of natural gas and the fact it is vital. Some of this dialogue is required for security of supply.

On ancillary infrastructure, it is a risk that some developers perceive that the supporting gas or electricity infrastructure might not come fast enough or might be on the critical path. In the last few months, as I mentioned, we sent two directions to systems operators to say those grid connections must be prioritised for new generators coming in. That was an example of a little bit of responsiveness.

On the economic signals, the SEM committee recently finished a consultation on the parameters which set some of those signals for the T-3, which is the first auction in January, and I think will shortly go out for consultation on the T-4, which is the next auction in March. That has taken input from industry and other observers on what parameters we might set and what volumes we might ask for in these auctions and to see who we can bring to the table. They are two or three examples.