Billy Timmins (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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Question 201: To ask the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources when the pilot micro electricity programme by Sustainable Energy Ireland will be commenced; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41922/08]

Billy Timmins (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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Question 202: To ask the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources when a scheme will be put in place to allow payment for micro electricity connected to the grid; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41924/08]

Billy Timmins (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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Question 203: To ask the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the timeframe for the implementation of the REFIT tariff for photovoltaic and for micro wind generation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41925/08]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin South, Green Party)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 201 to 203, inclusive, together.

Sustainable Energy Ireland (SEI) is implementing a Micro generation Pilot Programme, which will conduct research and field trials, including support for between 50 and 60 installations on a pilot basis. The field trials will address a range of issues including grid connection and technical standards to ensure the power security, safety and quality of installations.

The Commission for Energy Regulation (CER)/ESB Networks have recently amended the rules associated with small scale generators. It is now the case that generators of less than 6kW on single phase electricity and 11kW on three phase electricity supply cables can connect to the grid without prior authorisation. SEI will shortly publish a guide to connecting renewable and CHP electricity generators to the electricity network including advice for micro-generators. The development of micro generation will be progressively facilitated by the roll out of the national smart meter programme.

My Department is working closely with the Commission for Energy Regulation and other stakeholders to put in place in the short term an appropriately structured payment system for microgenerated electricity exported to the grid which will operate separately from the REFIT mechanism.