Mattie McGrath (Tipperary, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I, too, support the Bill and I am happy to make some brief comments on it. I share the view that enhancing community participation as a means to offset the effects of climate change is an admirable idea that is worth pursuing and supporting. My colleague beside me might have a different idea but that is fine. We are free thinkers in this group and we can do what we want. We have no Whips, thank God.

Projects such as those geared towards microregeneration also have a distinct advantage in terms of embedding climate change solutions at local level. That is very important. I am aware that Electric Ireland is extending its microgeneration pilot scheme export payment rate of 9 cent per kWh to existing domestic customers until 31 December 2018. That is to be welcomed. I would like to see the scheme extended beyond that point to allow for greater levels of involvement. Currently, the scheme is too small and is not known outside those with a specific interest. There is not enough awareness of it. I do not know where the fault lies for that.

I note also that while ESB Networks will still accept new applications to connect microgenerators to the existing network, it no longer offers its microgeneration support package of free installation of an import-export meter. That is an area that also must be addressed as a means of encouraging greater participation.

In July this year, the former Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment, Deputy Denis Naughten, launched a new microgeneration scheme to support domestic customers who install solar PV panels on their homes. That pilot scheme will also support the installation of solar PV panels for the generation of self-consumption of renewable electricity. As I understand it, the systems will be grant aided and additional grants will be available to those who install battery storage to capture electricity generated and used at a later date. That is very important. In light of that and the recommendations of the Citizens' Assembly, I am happy to give the Bill very favourable consideration.

We will have to make it easier for more people to access the grid, as currently access to it for different types of electricity generation is nearly impossible. A colleague who sits on this side of the House drives a hybrid car but he says there is no charging point in this complex. I do not know if that is the case and I put that question to the Minister.

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