James Browne (Wexford, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

We are all aware that the high population growth and strong economic growth led to increased demand in terms of housing and also for our economy. Particularly with regard to delivering housing and the supporting infrastructure, there has been a growth in energy demand and the energy intensity required for modern manufacturing and large-scale servers. Delivering electricity infrastructure is absolutely key for this Government to ensure houses are delivered and also for our wider economy.

In response to increased demand, ESB Networks and EirGrid have prepared business plans that propose significantly increased investment in the electricity grid for the period 2026 to 2030. Under the accelerating renewable electricity task force, the Department established in 2024 the future grid working group. This working group is tasked with accelerating the delivery of our electricity grid. This year will see the Irish regulator approve the investment in the Irish electricity grid for the period 2026 to 2030.

The Deputy has raised concerns. They exist and we all acknowledge that there are challenges, but the Department, regulator and Government will be responding to them in the coming years.

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