Dáil debates

Thursday, 17 July 2025

Ceisteanna Eile - Other Questions

Departmental Schemes

4:55 am

Photo of Helen McEnteeHelen McEntee (Meath East, Fine Gael)

This is something that has been brought to my attention before in some of the schools I visited, especially in larger schools, where I have been asked whether they could get more solar panels for all the reasons the Deputy outlined, including to help to reduce costs and ensure the system is appropriate to the scale and size of the school. The scheme's structure was put in place some time ago. I have been informed that the 6 kW peak was specifically chosen so the grid connection process is covered under ESB Networks process, which is the NC6 inform-and-fit notification process, unlike the others called the NC7 and NC8 mini and small-scale generator connection processes. There are no additional costs for schools under this process and there are no grid restrictions limiting export. These were the reasons I was given as to why this was set out, but again, I am happy to engage with the Minister, Deputy O'Brien. Looking at the scheme, it has been rolled out very well and many schools have applied for it but, at the same time, there is still a year and a half to go until the scheme is finalised. It would be a welcome opportunity to sit down with the Minister and look at how it is being rolled out, how effective it is and if there are changes that could potentially be made along the lines the Deputy suggested.

Comments

No comments

Log in or join to post a public comment.