Martin Heydon (Kildare South, Fine Gael)
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764. To ask the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources for an update on the position and review of REFIT tariffs for solar energy and other alternative energy sources; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24140/16]

Denis Naughten (Roscommon-Galway, Independent)
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The Programme for Government contains a commitment to facilitate the development of solar energy projects. The White Paper on Energy policy published in December 2015 also includes a commitment to introduce a new Renewable Electricity Support Scheme designed to encourage the development of Ireland's abundant, diverse and indigenous renewable energy resources, including solar photovoltaic technology.

It is widely recognised that solar photo voltaic technology has become more cost competitive for electricity generation over the last few years, not only compared with other renewables such as wind energy but also compared with conventional forms of generation. With these significant changes in the cost of the technology, the deployment of solar photovoltaic technology in Ireland has only recently become a potential cost-effective option to increase energy security, contribute to our renewable energy targets, and support economic growth and jobs. It is also recognised, however, that while the cost competitiveness of solar photovoltaic technology has improved, it would still require a subsidy in order to be developed on a commercial basis.

In-depth economic analysis is currently underway to inform the cost of a new Renewable Electricity Support Scheme. While no decision has been taken on the precise renewable technologies to be supported - and the appropriate level of tariffs remain under consideration - the cost and technical viability of a range of renewable technologies,  including solar photovoltaic technology, are being assessed.

Designing and implementing a new scheme is a complex task and it is expected that the broad details of the new scheme will be available early next year. Before these details are announced, my Department will run a second public consultation, which will give all interested parties an opportunity to input into the design of the new scheme. Details of the consultation will be posted on my Department's website www.dcenr.ie.  Ultimately, the introduction of any new scheme will be subject to Government approval and State aid clearance by the European Commission.