Noel Grealish (Galway West, Independent)
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180. To ask the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment when the hydrogen strategy will be published; the objectives it is likely to contain; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4318/23]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin Bay South, Green Party)
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In 2022, my Department launched a public consultation to gather views on the potential role of hydrogen in our energy system. A significant number of responses were received which reflects the momentum building behind green hydrogen in Ireland. Work is now underway on developing a hydrogen strategy for Ireland, with an anticipated completion timeline of  Q1 2023.

Hydrogen provides us with an incredible opportunity in Ireland. It provides the potential for long duration energy storage, dispatchable renewable electricity, the opportunity to decarbonise some parts of high temperature processing and a potential export market opportunity, given Irelands offshore renewable potential. Last year, the Government also agreed the Sectoral Emission Ceilings. As part of this, we agreed an additional 2GW offshore wind to be allocated for the production of green hydrogen.

Key objectives of the hydrogen strategy will be to provide clarity on production targets for 2030, what end uses it is envisioned for and a roadmap of actions which will support Ireland in achieving its long term ambitions in respect of hydrogen.