Réada Cronin (Kildare North, Sinn Fein)
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50. To ask the Minister for Environment, Community and Local Government the rationale for the threshold in the Renewable Heat Obligation Bill 2025 that states the Act will not apply to suppliers of fuels used for heating purposes that generate less than 400GWh of fuels per annum; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [55886/25]

Réada Cronin (Kildare North, Sinn Fein)
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51. To ask the Minister for Environment, Community and Local Government who will conduct the analysis of market coverage ahead of a final decision on the 400GWh threshold in the Renewable Heat Obligation Bill 2025; the timeline for its completion; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [55887/25]

Darragh O'Brien (Dublin Fingal East, Fianna Fail)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 50 and 51 together.

Implementing a Renewable Heat Obligation (RHO) is a key priority for my Department. Following Government approval of the General Scheme of the Renewable Heat Obligation Bill 2025, drafting of the primary legislation required to administer the scheme is now underway ahead of the introduction of the obligation in 2026.

As part of the RHO development process, extensive analysis was carried out as to the level of fossil fuels currently supplied for heating purposes, and the scale of obligation required to meet Ireland’s renewable heat targets. This analysis ensured final decisions taken in relation to the 400GWh threshold, including supporting effective administration of the scheme, were evidence-based and underpin its successful implementation.

Further details in relation to scheme structure are available to view on Gov.ie at: assets.gov.ie/static/documents/RENEWABLE_HEAT_OBLIGATION_BILL_2025.pdf.