Darren O'Rourke (Meath East, Sinn Fein)
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174. To ask the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment if and how his Department plans to implement energy sharing; if there are barriers to energy sharing; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [55220/23]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin Bay South, Green Party)
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Improving access to renewable energy sharing is one of a number of measures being considered as part of EU reforms to European electricity market design (EMD). To achieve a just energy transition to a fossil-free and resilient energy system that meets the EU's climate targets, the new EMD seeks to provide better protection for consumers, more stability for companies, and increased green electricity.

The European Council agreed to a general approach on the proposal to amend the Electricity Market design on 17 October 2023, in response to a European Commission proposal of March 2023. Discussions are ongoing between the Council and Parliament to finalise a compromise text. As part of a suite of measures to introduce new customer protections and participation measures in energy markets, and in understanding the importance that active consumers sharing energy will have for the future of European energy, the new EMD will step out in detail in article 15a the responsibilities and rights afforded to final customers involved in energy sharing.

My Department is already working closely with the Commission for Regulation of Utilities and ESBN to prepare for the significant technical and market changes that energy sharing would bring, while recognising the huge potential it offers in allowing more of our citizens to participate in Ireland’s energy transition. My Department will continue to work with relevant stakeholders to transpose and implement the final measures of the market reform when published.