Michael Moynihan (Cork North West, Fianna Fail)
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26. To ask the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the implications of the new EU energy and emissions targets for 2030; the role solar power will play in helping Ireland reach it’s carbon emission reduction targets; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [47263/14]

Joe McHugh (Donegal North East, Fine Gael)
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The October European Council endorsed a binding EU target of an at least 40% domestic reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 compared to 1990. In addition, an EU target of at least 27% is set for the share of renewable energy consumed in the EU in 2030, and an indicative target at the EU level of at least 27% is set for improving energy efficiency in 2030 compared to projections of future energy consumption. Ireland intends to make a cost-effective, achievable and fair (in terms of effort sharing among Member States), contribution to these high level EU goals. My Department is overseeing detailed and rigorous energy system and economic modelling to identify the contribution which is appropriate for Ireland taking account of our specific economic circumstances. This analysis will address issues such as the quantum of additional renewable electricity we should seek to achieve by 2030, the technologies that should be supported in this regard, and the level at which any future supports should be set. It is in the context of this analysis, and the development of a definitive Energy Policy, on which public consultation is underway, that any potential future role for solar power in helping Ireland reach its carbon emission reduction targets will be identified.