Tom Fleming (Kerry South, Independent) | Oireachtas source

We are falling far behind, given what is happening in the development of solar energy globally. In the US, for instance, the cost of providing solar energy has reduced by more than 60% since 2011.

The technology has improved enormously and manufacturing costs have tumbled in the meantime. In Texas, the price of electricity has reduced dramatically since the rolling out of solar energy technology across the United States. There is a lesson to be learned here because of our high dependency on the importation of expensive oil, for instance. Electricity and gas suppliers in this country have been ripping off customers, as the Minister is well aware. I acknowledge he intervened earlier this year. In a little over three years, electricity prices have increased by 22% and standard gas prices have increased by 36%. The result of this is an increase of up to €500 in the yearly running costs of a domestic dwelling.

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