Written answers

Thursday, 29 March 2018

Department of Communications, Climate Action and Environment

Energy Policy

Photo of Margaret Murphy O'MahonyMargaret Murphy O'Mahony (Cork South West, Fianna Fail)
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334. To ask the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the way in which energy security for all will be provided into the future; the way in which this will be managed through State and citizen-owned public private partnership or through private ownership; if firm policies and statutory requirements will be developed in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14528/18]

Photo of Denis NaughtenDenis Naughten (Roscommon-Galway, Independent)
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Energy security is one of the three key pillars of our energy policy, along with sustainability and competitiveness. Ireland's Energy Policy White Paper commits to radically reducing our greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. We have embarked on a firm course to sustainability, mindful of the need to balance competitiveness and security of supply through the period of transition, as fossil fuels will be curtailed and eventually eliminated in our energy mix through a range of reduction and substitution measures using more sustainable alternatives. Ireland’s energy policy, including security of supply, is fully aligned with the EU’s climate and energy objectives on the transition to decarbonisation. This involves continuous and ongoing review of policies to reduce harmful emissions, improve energy efficiency, incentivise efficient and sustainable infrastructure investment, integrate markets, and promote research and innovation while ensuring our energy security of supply is maintained and enhanced.  

The National Mitigation Plan, which I published last July, restates the Government’s commitment to move from a fossil fuel-based electricity system to a low-carbon power system in a secure and sustainable way, including promotion of energy efficiency, and smart operation of the existing grid for maximum benefit. Investment in further renewable generation will be incentivised, as well as in other low or zero-carbon technologies such as pumped storage and battery technology.

The National Development Plan 2018-2027 sets out clear measures towards decarbonisation, including the upgrading of 45,000 homes every year from 2021 to make them energy efficient, up to 4,500MW of renewable electricity generation, roll-out of the support scheme for renewable heat, and commitments on electric vehicles and low-emission public transport.  

Reaching our climate objectives while maintaining secure and reliable sources of energy will require a broad range of actions by citizens, businesses and the public sector.   I recognise that sufficient flexibility will be needed, including, where necessary, in relation to funding and governance arrangements for actions, so that we achieve the transition that delivers the best outcomes in security of supply, sustainability and competitiveness for our citizens and businesses.

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