Darren O'Rourke (Meath East, Sinn Fein)
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117. To ask the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment if he will provide an update on investigations into the potential of geothermal energy in the State; if it presents a possible solution to runaway heating costs in communal heating systems; the immediate solutions that will be provided for people living in complexes with these systems; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9981/23]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin Bay South, Green Party)
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A Policy Statement on Geothermal Energy for a Circular Economy is being finalised by my Department. This represents an important step in addressing the barriers to the development of geothermal energy in Ireland. It will help draw attention to its potential to decarbonise the heating and cooling of buildings, for industrial processes requiring heat and in the longer term, to generate electricity.

The policy statement reflects consideration by the Geothermal Energy Advisory Group of how my Department responded to the submissions received during the Public Consultation on the development of the policy. Subject to the Government's approval in due course, the policy statement will outline the preferred approach to be taken in developing a regulatory framework and the scope of a strategy to promote the sustainable development of Ireland’s geothermal resources.

In relation to communal heating schemes, a central part of the solution to dependence on natural gas for heat lies with cost-effective energy efficiency measures and accelerated deployment of renewable energy sources, to include consideration of geothermal energy, where appropriate.

Throughout 2022, the Government introduced a €2.4 billion package of supports for households and businesses, and as part of Budget 2023, introduced a package of measures worth €2.5 billion. This included the €1.2 billion Electricity Cost Emergency Benefit Scheme, through which €600 (inclusive of VAT) is being credited to each domestic electricity account in three payments. The third €200 electricity credit is due to be applied in March/April.

Furthermore, any individual who is in need of additional support to facilitate their continued energy supply can apply for an Additional Needs Payment provided by the Department of Social Protection.

On 13 December, Government approved a new Energy Poverty Action Plan, which provides for the establishment of a €10 million fund to further support people in, or at risk of, energy poverty this winter and into 2023. The fund will ensure that people in most need can access financial supports quickly and directly provide a further safeguard in addition to the supports from supplier hardship funds and the Additional Needs Payment operated by the Department of Social Protection. The Money Advice and Budgeting Service (MABS) is also available to provide budgeting advice and advocacy support.