Eamon Ryan (Dublin South, Green Party)
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Question 89: To ask the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if there are plans to implement a net metering system, to incentivise domestic energy production; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20768/06]

Noel Dempsey (Meath, Fianna Fail)
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The introduction of metering for domestic electricity production requires a range of technical safety and systems issues to be addressed and resolved. Sustainable Energy Ireland (SEI) in a report on "Metering Options for Small Scale Renewable and CHP Electricity Generation in Ireland" identified a range of areas to be addressed including the ability of micro-generators to secure adequate payment for their exports, as well as a review of connection standards and processes for smaller generators. It also identifies the need to assess the implications of the single electricity market for small-scale electricity generation. This further analysis is underway and will inform decisions in due course.

In tandem with this analysis, the Commission for Energy Regulation (CER) is examining the issue from the regulatory and grid code perspective. CER will launch a consultation process shortly with a view to establishing an appropriate way forward fully informed by input from all stakeholders.

I am fully in favour of encouraging domestic electricity production subject to all the technical, safety and quality assurance requirements being in place in the interests of all concerned.