Dáil debates

Wednesday, 30 November 2022

Saincheisteanna Tráthúla - Topical Issue Debate

Fuel Poverty

9:32 am

Photo of Frank FeighanFrank Feighan (Sligo-Leitrim, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Deputy. The issues affecting customers of group heating schemes is primarily a matter for the consumer and the energy provider. The package of financial supports made available under budget 2023 includes the electricity emergency benefit scheme and will assist vulnerable households in the context of the cost of living. I do not have the detail regarding clarity but we will be able to work on that if the Deputy sends an email to the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications, Deputy Ryan, or to me. I have no problem with determining what is the best outcome.

Unfortunately, all EU member states have been affected by recent high global energy prices to various degrees. These impacts have been felt, especially by vulnerable citizens and small and medium enterprises that are striving to recover from the Covid-19 pandemic. Nevertheless it is important to have a clear and shared understanding of the current situation. The Deputy has rightly said we need to protect these residents, and I agree we need to do as much as we can to protect them and get them out of the vulnerable situation they find themselves in.

A central part of the solution lies with cost-effective energy efficiency measures and accelerated deployment of renewable energy sources. It is very important we proceed swiftly with the treatment of the Fit for 55 package to achieve climate neutrality by 2050, and a well-managed energy transition is part of the solution to keep prices affordable and predictable. The Government is working to expand district heating in Ireland to contribute to decarbonisation goals and to provide improved comfort and energy efficiency in homes. An expansion of district heating can also create skilled jobs in the areas of district heating systems, construction, and network operation and maintenance. An appropriate regulatory framework under EU legislation that also takes into account the Irish operational environment will be developed with advice from the district heating steering group to ensure protection and transparency, including for users of group heating schemes. I thank the Deputy for raising this important issue.

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