Written Answers Nos. 76-94
76. Deputy David Cullinane asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment the steps he is taking in response to a matter raised in correspondence (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52775/26]
View answerThe Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is an independent public body established under the Environmental Protection Agency Act 1992 and is entirely independent in the exercise of its functions.
A key aspect of the Environmental Protection Agency's establishing legislation was that the Agency is entirely independent of the Minister in the exercise of its functions.
In my role as Minister, I am prohibited by the provisions of Section 79(3) Environmental Protection Agency Act, 1992 from exercising any power or control in relation to functions assigned to the agency.
I note that the correspondence raises concerns in relation to the EPA decision on this matter. The EPA has a customer charter available at the following link: www.epa.ie/publications/corporate/governance/EPA_Customer_Charter_2024.pdf
The matter may also be submitted to the Quality Customer Service Officer at the following address:
Quality Customer Service Officer, EPA, PO Box 3000, Johnstown Castle Estate, Co Wexford.
It can also be sent by email to: qcsofficer@epa.ie
77. Deputy Malcolm Byrne asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment if there is a specific policy within his Department that seeks to preclude those elected to local authorities from any boards that he may appoint; the rationale behind any such policy; the way in which it aligns with encouraging participation in local government; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52849/26]
View answerAs Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment, I am responsible for appointments to the boards of relevant bodies under the aegis of my Department.
All appointments are made in accordance with the requirements of the governing legislation of the State Body, which may or may not have specific provisions around who can be appointed to State Boards, together with the Guidelines on Appointments to State Boards available on the Publicjobs.ie website.
The Public Appointments Service (PAS) has responsibility for managing an open, accessible and transparent system to support Ministers in making state board appointments and it is open to the public to apply for positions as advertised on the Stateboards.ie website.
78. Deputy Malcolm Byrne asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment to commit to preparing legislation to not automatically exclude members of local authorities from consideration for appointment to State boards; and to set out the reasons such persons would be excluded. [52867/26]
View answerAs Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment, I am responsible for appointments to the boards of relevant bodies under the aegis of my Department.
All appointments are made in accordance with the requirements of the governing legislation of the State Body, which may or may not have specific provisions around who can be appointed to State Boards, together with the Guidelines on Appointments to State Boards available on the Publicjobs.ie website.
The Public Appointments Service (PAS) has responsibility for managing an open, accessible and transparent system to support Ministers in making State board appointments and it is open to the public to apply for positions as advertised on the Stateboards.ie website.
79. Deputy Keira Keogh asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment if his Department has had any engagement regarding exploration interest near the Inishkea Islands in County Mayo; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53038/26]
View answer80. Deputy Keira Keogh asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment for an update on the Inishkea Island's exploratory licence; the reason this licence was extended to 2026; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53039/26]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 79 and 80 together.
Under the Government’s policy on Petroleum Exploration and Production, published in August 2022, companies holding existing authorisations may continue to apply to progress through the standard licensing lifecycle stages towards a natural conclusion, which may include expiry, relinquishment production or rejection.
There is currently no exploration interest near the Inishkea Islands in County Mayo. There is a Frontier Exploration Licence 4/19 which is located approximately 60 kilometres offshore from County Mayo adjacent to the Corrib Gas Field which contains a prospect named Inishkea West.
An extension to the first phase of Frontier Exploration Licence (FEL4/19) operated by Europa Oil and Gas (Inishkea) Limited was given to the end of January 2026 following an assessment of an application submitted by the company in 2024 for a 2-year extension to the first phase. An assessment was carried out in accordance with the regulatory framework, which showed that the applicant met the required technical and financial criteria, and the extension was granted to end January 2026.
On the 16 of October 2025 the licensee submitted an application for a further 2-year extension to the first Phase to carry out additional technical studies. A similar technical assessment and assessment of financial resources has been carried out in accordance with regulatory framework and a further extension to 31 January 2028 has been granted.
It should be noted that that while the first Phase of the licence has been extended there is no change to the overall duration of the licence.
81. Deputy Paul Murphy asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment in light of his recent statement that no household has not been connected to the network due to a data centre (details supplied), if he is also satisfied that no households have been delayed in connecting to the electricity network because of data centres. [53105/26]
View answerAs set out in the Programme for Government, investing in the electricity grid is a priority for Government. The CRU Price Review 6 (PR6) decision will see up to €18.9 billion invested in our electricity system over the coming 5 years, the largest ever electricity grid investment. This will enable the delivery of major upgrades and developments to the electricity network, facilitating the connection up to 300,000 new homes by 2030 and enabling heat and transport electrification, while driving industrial and economic growth. Housing developments continue to be connected to the electricity network, and it has not been the case that other connections including enterprise connections have prevented this.
In Ireland, the Commission for Regulation of Utilities (CRU) is responsible for grid connection policy. The CRU is an independent regulator, accountable to a Committee of the Oireachtas and not to me as Minister. The management of connections to the electricity grid is the responsibility of ESB Networks and EirGrid under rules determined by the CRU. ESB Networks and EirGrid are independent of me as Minister in the exercise of their respective functions.
The pathway to connection to the electricity grid is dependent on the nature and scale of the project seeking connection. The connection policy for data centres is the CRU’s ‘Large Energy Users Connection Policy’. The policy sets out a pathway for connection for data centres while addressing concerns in relation to system constraints and promoting renewable energy targets. Data centres requesting connection to the electricity grid will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis against strict assessment criteria.
ESB Networks is responsible for domestic connections. Connection applications are dealt with on sequential first come first served basis. With growing demand across all sectors and long lead times for infrastructure, ESB Networks are advising developers to provide as much notice of their requirements as possible.
My Department is either leading on or part of taskforces, including the Accelerating Infrastructure Taskforce, which are critical to enabling delivery of grid infrastructure. Cross Government work is ongoing to accelerate critical infrastructure including implementation of the Accelerating Infrastructure Action Plan and the 30, time bound, measures to remove barriers to infrastructure delivery. Implementation of these measures along with the work of the taskforces will ensure that EirGrid and ESB Networks are placed in the best position to deliver PR6 for the country.
The Deputy may wish to engage directly with ESB Networks, EirGrid and the CRU who have respective contact email addresses for Deputies to raise matters of concern (oireachtas@esb.ie, oireachtas@eirgrid.com, oireachtas@cru.ie).
82. Deputy Pádraig Rice asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment the funding provided to participating local authorities under the Local Authority Public Lighting Energy Efficiency Project (details supplied) to date, in tabular form; to clarify the grounds on which each payment was calculated; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53216/26]
View answerThis Government is committed to climate action and has provided record funding for climate related measures and actions through the Climate Action Fund (CAF). In 2024, my Department signed a grant agreement with the Roads Management Office (RMO) for the Public Lighting Energy Efficiency Project, committing €17.5 million CAF funding, leveraging a total investment of €126 million, to retrofit approximately 197,000 non-LED Local Authority public lights to high efficiency LED Lanterns.
Public Lighting accounts for approximately 50% of total energy use and this project could save in excess of 48,000 kWh of energy annually and avoid the emission of approximately of over 17,000 tonnes of CO2 equivalent annually.
The project is managed by the RMO, includes 21 local authorities and is being implemented on a regional basis by three lead authorities, namely South West, led by Cork County Council; East, led by Kilkenny County Council; and Northwest led by Mayo County Council.
The 21 participating authorities are:
• Southern Region: Cork County Council, Clare County Council, Kerry Co Council, Limerick City and Co Council, Waterford City and Co Council.
• Eastern Region: Carlow Co Council, Kildare Co Council, Kilkenny Co Council, Louth Co Council, Meath Co Council, Offaly Co Council, Tipperary Co Council, Westmeath Co Council, Wicklow Co Council.
• North-West Region: Cavan Co Council, Donegal Co Council, Galway Co Council, Leitrim Co Council, Mayo Co Council, Roscommon Co Council, Sligo Co Council.
Under the grant agreement with the RMO, the total number of public lights eligible for replacement is 197,907, as validated and submitted by local authorities to the National Oversight and Audit Commission (NOAC) as of 1 January 2022. The grant agreement provides that funding from the CAF is available up to a maximum amount of €17,476,463.03.
10% of support for eligible costs submitted by the RMO is retained at each drawdown and will be retained until completion of each project, and following verification that the works have been delivered to the satisfaction of my Department. The payment of this final 10% for each Project is also subject to having received and verified all required reports.
The funding provided by the CAF (including payments currently being processed) is set out in the table below. These payments are made to the RMO for distribution to the three regional projects via each lead authority. The amounts shown reflect grant funding claimed and paid in accordance with the terms and conditions of the CAF grant agreement and the eligible expenditure incurred by each participating authority in the region.
Summary of CAF funding in all regions / milestones
|
Milestone No. |
South West Region |
Eastern Region |
North West Region |
Total |
|
Total CAF Allocation |
€6,392,150.12 |
€6,830,150.06 |
€4,254,162.85 |
€17,476,463.03 |
|
Milestones achieved (Note: 4 Milestones per region) |
Milestones 1 ,2,3,4 |
Milestones 1 & 2 |
Milestones 1,2& 3 (Note: This includes Payments currently being processed for milestones 2&3) |
|
|
Value of CAF claims to date (after 10% retention) |
€4,717,406.80 |
€3,073,567.54 |
€2,871,559.92 |
€10,662,534.26 |
Payments are not made on a predetermined allocation basis to individual local authorities. Rather, claims are submitted by the RMO in accordance with the terms of the grant agreement and are assessed against eligible expenditure incurred in delivering the project. Each payment is calculated on the basis of:
• eligible expenditure incurred by participating local authorities in the delivery of the project;
• submission of supporting invoices relating to activities and services directly associated with the project and the achievement of agreed milestones;
• evidence that the relevant project milestones have been achieved;
• confirmation that expenditure has been allocated and incurred in accordance with the conditions of the grant agreement;
• evidence that amounts claimed have been paid to suppliers;
• compliance with the requirements of Circular 13/2014 on the Management of and Accountability for Grants from Exchequer Funds; and
• submission of supporting financial documentation, including expenditure schedules, invoices and proof of payment.
Payments are calculated on the basis of verified eligible expenditure and milestone achievement rather than by reference to a fixed allocation per participating local authority.
83. Deputy Pádraig O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment the assessment his Department has made of the damage caused to waste management facilities by discarded nitrous oxide canisters, with individual incidents reported to have cost up to €30,000; whether producer responsibility or deposit-style obligations for canister disposal have been considered; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53345/26]
View answerThe waste management system in Ireland is owned and operated by private commercial enterprises and as such any assessment of costs associated with the improper disposal of nitrous oxide cannisters is a matter for the individual private operators concerned.
Under EU waste legislation, discarded pressurised containers of nitrous oxide should be classified and treated as hazardous waste and as such used nitrous oxide cannisters should not be placed in the residual waste bin or the recycling bin and require a specialist hazardous waste disposal service for collection and appropriate treatment.
My Department has engaged with the local authority sector and other relevant stakeholders, under the auspices of the National Hazardous Waste Management Plan, to prioritise the development of a system which will assist local authorities in managing discarded nitrous oxide cannisters as a matter of urgency.
Arising from this process of engagement, a Working Group has been established, chaired by the Regional Waste Management Planning Offices, to address the issue. Membership of the Working Group consists of representatives of the local authority sector, the Environmental Protection Agency and officials from the Department. It will prioritise the development of guidance and procedures to assist all local authorities in appropriately managing this material via the civic amenity site network. In addition, the Working Group is committed to developing appropriate awareness raising measures to ensure that the public are fully informed about how to properly dispose of this material.
I am advised that, under Section 3 of the Criminal Justice (Psychoactive Substances) Act 2010, it is an offence to sell, import or export a psychoactive substance for human consumption, including nitrous oxide. As such the introduction of producer responsibility or a deposit return type scheme to manage this material would not be appropriate.
84. Deputy Pádraig O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment the arrangements in place for the environmentally safe disposal of items excluded from the pharmacy-based unused medicines return scheme, including sharps, vapes and nitrous oxide canisters; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53346/26]
View answerI am advised that the operation of the pharmacy-based unused medicines return scheme is a matter for the Department of Health. As such I cannot comment on what materials are accepted under that scheme.
In order to protect the environment and ensure the recycling of the valuable materials, it is important that electronic vaping devices are disposed of correctly. Proper takeback and disposal are also part of the transition to a circular economy.
Ireland uses Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) measures for dealing with waste streams such as batteries and waste electrical and electronic equipment. EPR requires producers to fund the collection and appropriate management of vaping devices when they become waste. The compliance schemes with responsibility for WEEE/Batteries, WEEE Ireland and ERP Ireland facilitate the collective take back of this e-waste for free, recycling via their battery collection network and dedicated battery boxes.
Under EU waste legislation, discarded pressurised containers of nitrous oxide should be classified and treated as hazardous waste and as such used nitrous oxide cannisters should not be placed in the residual waste bin or the recycling bin and require a specialist hazardous waste disposal service for collection and appropriate treatment.
My Department has engaged with the local authority sector and other relevant stakeholders, under the auspices of the National Hazardous Waste Management Plan, to prioritise the development of a system which will assist local authorities in managing discarded nitrous oxide cannisters as a matter of urgency.
Arising from this process of engagement, a Working Group has been established, chaired by the Regional Waste Management Planning Offices, to address the issue. Membership of the Working Group consists of representatives of the local authority sector, the Environmental Protection Agency and officials from the Department. It will prioritise the development of guidance and procedures to assist all local authorities in appropriately managing this material via the civic amenity site network. In addition, the Working Group is committed to developing appropriate awareness raising measures to ensure that the public are fully informed about how to properly dispose of this material.
85. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment the total Exchequer support for the Bord na Móna bog rehabilitation scheme; the approximate cost per acre of the scheme; and the findings made by his Department on the applicability of these costings to other rewilding and ecological restoration schemes in Ireland, whether in bogs or elsewhere. [53373/26]
View answerThe rehabilitation and restoration of peatlands is currently being undertaken by Bord na Móna (BnM) through the Enhanced Decommissioning Rehabilitation and Restoration Scheme (EDRRS). BnM are the operator of the scheme, with my Department administering the project and the National Parks and Wildlife Service of the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage involved as the scheme regulator.
EDRRS is one of Ireland’s lead green projects under the National Recovery and Resilience Plan and receives funding via the EU’s Recovery and Resilience Fund (RRF). It involves the rehabilitation of approximately 33,000 hectares of previously extracted peatland.
The maximum value of funding for the scheme to be done between 2021 and 2030 is €108 million. The scheme is funded by the RRF up to August 2026 to the maximum value of €86 million. The remaining €22 million will be funded by the Climate Action Fund between September 2026 and December 2030. The approximate cost per hectare for the scheme is €3,300 or €1,300 per acre.
To date, €72.4 million has been claimed by BnM under EDRRS and just over 24,500 hectares of peatland have been rehabilitated. The work being carried out under this scheme will help fulfil a key target under the Land Use, Land Use Change & Forestry (LULUCF) sector of the national Climate Action Plan.
Once rehabilitated, these peatlands will support peat forming habitats, protecting the storage of millions of tonnes of carbon, enhancing biodiversity, and contributing to Ireland’s target of carbon neutrality by no later than 2050.
EDRRS is the largest scheme of its kind in Ireland and is a pathfinder in Europe, and can act as a leading example for further restoration initiatives across the country. A Best Practice Report is currently being drafted alongside a range of other reporting that will outline the work that has been undertaken so far, the lessons learned and the improvements generated as a result of the rehabilitation under the scheme. Reporting in relation to monitoring and verification, as well as annual reports, can already be found on the scheme website, www.bnmpcas.ie.
As well as looking at the technical impacts of the scheme, the reporting will also cover the financial aspect of the scheme. The applicability of costings, or any associated lessons learned, to other restoration schemes in Ireland will largely depend on the nature of these future schemes, for example, if they involve forest-to-bog restoration, or if they constitute a land use change and require planning consent.
86. Deputy Réada Cronin asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment the specific pollution source that is suspected in relation to the fish kill on the River Rye in Kildare; whether any individual, business, farm or facility has been identified as a potential cause; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53396/26]
View answer87. Deputy Réada Cronin asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment whether the fish kill on the River Rye in Kildare indicates a failure in regulatory oversight by the EPA, Kildare County Council or any other authority; the corrective actions that will be taken; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53397/26]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 86 and 87 together.
Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI) is the State agency responsible for the protection, management, and conservation of Ireland's inland fisheries and sea-angling resources.
When IFI first received a report regarding a fish kill on the Rye, an initial investigation was carried out to assess the impact on fish. IFI subsequently triggered the National Protocol for Coordinating the Response to Significant Fish Mortality Events in Freshwater and established a 'Significant Incident Investigation Group'. This group included the EPA, Kildare County Council and other statutory bodies.
This Protocol, which was agreed, finalised and published last month, provides, for the first time, a clear and coordinated framework for how agencies will work together when responding to a significant fish kill incident. It is an excellent example of how agencies can combine their statutory powers, expertise and resources to deliver a coordinated, science-led and transparent response.
I reject any suggestion of failure in regulatory oversight by the State bodies and the local authority who acted promptly and effectively on notification of this incident. Indeed, I have been informed by IFI that a source is suspected and a definite line of enquiry has been established and is being pursued. The investigation is ongoing and, at this time, it would not be appropriate to provide any further detail as doing so may jeopardise any future potential legal proceedings.
88. Deputy Seán Kyne asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment to provide details of all grant schemes currently available through his Department for which individuals or community groups are eligible to apply; the purpose of each grant scheme; the eligibility criteria; the application process; the opening and closing dates for application; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53411/26]
View answerThe information sought in the Question is set out in the table.
|
Grant Scheme available through DCEE for which individuals or community groups can apply. |
Purpose of the Scheme |
Eligibility Criteria |
Application Process |
Opening and Closing Dates for application |
|
Support Scheme for Renewable Heat |
The scheme is designed to financially support the installation and/or operation of renewable heating systems by commercial, industrial, agricultural, district heating and other non-domestic heat users (including Community Groups). |
Successful Scheme applicants will need to comply with all relevant requirements set out in the Terms & Conditions, the Scheme Operating Rules and Guidelines, the Letter of Offer issued by SEAI and the written agreement, known as the Grant Agreement or the Tariff Agreement, entered into between the successful applicant and SEAI, including demonstrating compliance with ongoing obligations. |
Online – through SEAI Website / Portal |
Opened in 2019 No Closing Date for applications currently in place. |
|
Circular Economy Innovation Grant Scheme (CEIGS) |
The purpose of this grants scheme is to provide support to projects which work in the circular economy space, with the aim of advancing the circular economy in Ireland and raising awareness of the need to transition to a circular economy. |
Successful Scheme applicants will need to comply with all relevant requirements set out in the Terms & Conditions, the Scheme Operating Rules and Guidelines, and the Grant Agreement, details of which will be made clear at the launch of the Scheme. |
Online (link/portal not yet developed) |
Quarter 3 2026 (dates to be confirmed) |
|
Warmer Homes Scheme |
Providing fully funded energy efficiency improvements to the homes of people who are in receipt of certain welfare payments. This is for owner occupied properties. |
As per rules / guidelines set out on SEAI’s website |
Through SEAI via online / post |
N/A |
|
Better Energy Homes scheme |
Provides part funded grants for individual energy efficiency improvements. This is open to all homeowners wishing to take a step-by-step approach to retrofit. |
As per rules / guidelines set out on SEAI’s website |
Through SEAI via online / post |
N/A |
|
National Home Energy Upgrade Scheme |
This is a part funded scheme supporting deep retrofits to a “B” BER standard. Homeowners make applications to the Scheme through a One Stop Shop.
|
As per rules / guidelines set out on SEAI’s website |
Through SEAI via online / post |
N/A |
|
Community Energy Grant scheme |
This scheme supports cross-sectoral and community-oriented partnership approaches that deliver energy savings to a range of building types including public, commercial and community buildings with a particular focus on using these projects to further deliver on home retrofits.
|
As per rules / guidelines set out on SEAI’s website |
Through SEAI via online / post |
N/A |
|
Solar PV scheme |
This scheme provides support to homeowners for renewable solar panel installations. |
As per rules / guidelines set out on SEAI’s website |
Through SEAI via online / post |
N/A |
|
Solar PV for Medically Vulnerable scheme |
This is a targeted scheme for the installation of solar panels for customers/households who are registered on the life support category of the Priority Services Register. |
Customers/households who are registered on the life support category of the Priority Services Register where their home was built and occupied on or before 31 December 2020. |
Through the customers respective energy supplier. |
N/A |
|
Support Scheme for Energy Audits (SSEA) |
provides support to fully cover the costs of a typical energy audit. The scheme enables businesses to rapidly identify energy saving measures, giving them a roadmap to save money, including no and low-cost steps that can be taken immediately. |
It is open to all public and private sector organisations that are not already required to carry out an energy audit under the Energy Efficiency Directive. |
|
|
|
Business Energy Upgrades Scheme (BEUS) |
can provide substantial support to the SME sector to address energy costs and reduce emissions in their buildings. |
open to all businesses, public sectors bodies, societies and charities who are upgrading a building they own or occupy |
|
|
|
Non-Domestic Microgen Grant |
provides financial assistance to help businesses and other sectors to install solar PV panels to generate electricity on site. Grants are available for systems up to a maximum of €162,600 for installations of up to 1000kWp. |
|
|
|
89. Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment the key measures taken to enhance environmental protection since January 2025; his priorities for same for the rest of 2026; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53447/26]
View answerProtecting our environment remains a key priority for the Government. My Department is responsible for setting the policy and legislative framework within which the key environmental regulators, including the Environmental Protection Agency and the local authorities, discharge their functions.
The EPA noted in the 2025 Industrial and Waste Licence Enforcement Summary Report
(www.epa.ie/publications/compliance--enforcement/licensees/performance/FINAL-2024-EPA-Industrial-Waste-Licence-Enforcement-Summary-Report.pdf) that 1,309 inspections of industrial and waste facilities were carried out in the previous year and that 96% of such inspections were unannounced.
The Environment (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2026 was signed into law on 12 March 2026. with commencement provisions underway. The Act facilitates:
• the timely development of critical infrastructure in the energy sector, which will facilitate the transition to renewables;
• the deployment of better emissions abatement and other progressive environmental protection technologies which require amendments to licences; and
• securing of investment in infrastructure (including circular economy infrastructure) which will in turn stimulate significant sustainable economic activity within a well-regulated environmental licensing regime.
The EPA also noted in the Local Authority Environmental Enforcement Performance Report 2024 (www.epa.ie/publications/compliance--enforcement/public-authorities/Local-Authority-Environmental-Enforcement-Performance-Report-2024.pdf) that local authorities improved their environmental enforcement performance by 20% over the past three years, with 79% of the National Enforcement Priority (NEP) assessments meeting the required standard in 2024.
A key priority for 2026 in the area of industrial emission protection is the progression of the supporting secondary legislation and the transposition of the revised Industrial Emissions Directive.
In relation to air quality, the 2025 progress report on the implementation of Ireland’s Clean Air Strategy noted that Ireland is compliant with all current EU ambient air quality standards and that Ireland came back into compliance with the National Emissions Reduction Commitment Directive during 2023. The Air Pollution (Amendment) Act was signed into law on 18 June 2026. This Act aims to further support enforcement action by the local authorities to protect our air quality and improve the registration and compliance systems in relation to the commercial sale and supply of solid fuels. Further priorities for 2026 in relation to air include: implementing the Air Pollution (Amendment) Act 2026 and the development of the supporting secondary legislation; transposing the revised EU Ambient Air Quality Directive; and accelerating pollutant emissions reductions through the further implementation of the Clean Air Strategy.
In relation to the circular economy, the Whole of Government Circular Economy Strategy 2026-2028: Accelerating Action, was launched in February of this year. This positions circularity as central to Ireland's economic competitiveness, environmental sustainability, and social wellbeing meaning moving Ireland from a linear "take–make–waste" model to a regenerative, closed-loop system where materials are kept in use for as long as possible. The Deposit and Return Scheme has now collected over 3 billion containers since its introduction in February 2024, achieving an average return rate of 76% in 2025.
The Roadmap on Circular Textiles 2026-2028 was launched this year and includes actions to address various issues affecting the textile value chain, separate collection of textiles and the establishment of an Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) scheme by April 2028.
The Local Government sector launched a nationwide public awareness campaign in April 2026, funded by my Department, to provide information to citizens on where and how to discard their used textiles responsibly and to maximise opportunities for reuse and recycling. A National Textile Map is now available on Mywaste.ie website to inform citizens on the nearest location to discard or donate their used textiles.
The Department recently opened a public consultation on Ireland’s National Food Waste Prevention Roadmap which will set out actions to help Ireland reduce food waste and meet new legally binding EU food waste reduction targets by 2030. Circular economy priorities for 2026 include: implementation and reporting on the Whole of Government Circular Economy Strategy; transposition and implementation of EU circular economy legislation applying to textiles, packaging, batteries, plastic pellets and end of life vehicles; supporting further progress in establishing Ireland’s Deposit and Return Scheme; supporting the installation of a further 84 public drinking water fountains; development and launch of a circularity roadmap for the construction and demolition sector; and continued funding for the remediation of legacy landfills as set out in the National Development Plan and the National Waste Management Plan 2024 -2030.
My Department also provides funding to support an Taisce’s Clean Coasts range of programmes (€635,000 in 2026), which engage over 2,500 community groups consisting of over 45,000 volunteers across the programmes.
90. Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment the key measures taken on climate action since January 2025; his priorities for same for the rest of 2026; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53448/26]
View answerThis Government is committed to delivering on Ireland’s responsibility to address the climate crisis and work remains ongoing across Government to implement climate mitigation measures every day. We have a robust climate delivery framework and detailed plans in place across all sectors. My priority is driving implementation, particularly of high impact measures with multiple societal and economic benefits.
The EPA’s most recent emissions inventory report, published in July 2026, confirms record progress. Ireland has recorded overall greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reductions for a fourth consecutive year, with a decrease of 2.2% in 2025 following decreases of 2% in 2024, 6.8% in 2023 and 1.9% in 2022.
Ireland now has the lowest level of GHG emissions in 36 years which is notable given a concurrent population increase of approximately 1.5 million people, more than one million new homes and over one million extra vehicles on our roads. Given the strong economic growth over this period, we can see a clear decoupling of growth from emissions which is a key milestone in Ireland's transition to climate neutrality.
All main sectors saw reductions in 2025. Emissions from energy industries decreased for the fourth consecutive year by 7.1% in 2025, to an all-time low as investment in renewables continues to reduce emissions.
In other sectors, buildings emissions were down 4.7%, industry sector emissions were down 3.3%, transport emissions down 1.5% and agriculture down 0.2%. Significantly, the EPA's report shows that the first carbon budget has now been achieved on the back of these record emissions reductions.
We are making significant strides toward our target of 80% renewable energy by 2030. We now have 8GW onshore renewable electricity generation. Regularly throughout the first half of 2026 almost half of Ireland’s electricity demand came from renewable sources. The recent ORESS Tonn Nua offshore wind auction will secure enough clean electricity to power 1,000,000 homes, and we have five Phase One developments progressing through planning this year.
To support this transition, the Government has approved an unprecedented investment of €18.9 billion in the Grid for the period 2026 – 2030. This represents the largest ever investment in our electricity grid, delivering major upgrades and developments to allow for the greater electrification of homes, businesses, and transport.
There are now over 240,000 EVs on Irish roads and, earlier this month, I launched the ICE2EV Scheme which will further accelerate the transition from older, more polluting cars to electric vehicles through targeted financial supports, supported under the Climate Action Fund.
In January this year I announced the updated National Residential Retrofit Plan which includes new and enhanced measures to make retrofitting supports more accessible to households. In Budget 2026, Government provided a record allocation of €640 million, and with this we are targeting 73,000 home energy upgrades this year.
Last week, I secured Government approval for revisions to the General Scheme of the Heat (Networks and Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill 2024. This legislation will accelerate the deployment of district heating, strengthen consumer protections and boost Ireland's energy security.
The National Designated Maritime Area Plan for Offshore Renewable Energy (National DMAP for ORE), which I announced in 2025, will deliver a strategic long-term plan for ORE development, supporting significant long-term abatement in our electricity sector. The National DMAP for ORE is on track to be completed by Q4 2027. Last week, Government also approved the publication of the Marine Planning Policy Statement and proposals for the Maritime Area Planning (Marine Protected Areas) (Amendment) Bill 2026, the latter of which will provide a legislative basis for the designation and effective management of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) in Irish waters.
The Climate Action Delivery Board (CADB), which I chair, and the Climate Action Plan Programme Board (CAPPB) are also now providing oversight of the delivery of our highest impact measures and driving the development of the next Climate Action Plan, which is currently in development and will be published later this year. This Plan will be a more focussed and targeted Plan and will set out my intentions for more action in the coming months and years.
91. Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment the key measures taken on enhance energy security and production capacity since January 2025; his priorities for same for the rest of 2026; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53449/26]
View answerThe key measures which have been taken to enhance energy security and production capacity during 2025 as well as actions for each year up to 2030 are outlined in the Energy Security in Ireland to 2030 report which was published in November 2023.
This report outlines a strategy to ensure energy security in Ireland for this decade, while also ensuring a sustainable transition to a carbon neutral energy system by 2050.
The report was published as part of an Energy Security Package containing a range of supplementary analyses, consultations, and reviews, which have informed the recommendations and actions related to energy security.
The 28 actions outlined in Energy Security in Ireland to 2030 are overseen by the Energy Security Group (ESG), which is chaired by the Secretary General of my Department and attended by officials from relevant Government Departments and Agencies. My priority for 2026 is to see all outstanding actions progressed and timelines adhered to.
The table below provides an update of the actions to end Q1 2026.
In terms of renewables in relation to energy production, there is nearly 8.2 GW of installed renewable electricity capacity in Ireland, with over 5 GW of onshore wind and over 2.6 GW of solar capacity installed. We regularly generate 40-50% of our monthly electricity demand from renewable sources, reaching peaks of 75% of electricity demand being met by renewables. Ireland will have 5 GW of offshore wind in construction by 2030, subject to planning.
The Government has also set a target of 2GW of modern flexible gas fired generation by 2030 to support the system during low renewable periods and anticipates that up to 600MW of capacity could deliver this year.
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ACTION |
STATUS |
ESTIMATED TIMELINE FOR DELIVERY |
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1. To transpose the European Energy Efficiency Directive |
IN PROGRESS |
Work is ongoing to progress the transposition of the Energy Efficiency Directive. |
|
2. To standardise the approach used to evaluate the affordability of new and existing policy initiatives on consumers |
IN PROGRESS |
Ongoing. Priorities have been realigned under the PfG resulting in the establishment of a National Energy Affordability Taskforce (NEAT). The drafting, publication and implementation of a National Energy Affordability Action Plan will be a key output of the NEAT. The relevant actions in the ESP are being incorporated into the work programme of the NEAT. Two meetings of the neat have taken place in Q1 of 2026. |
|
3. To improve the ways that homes and businesses can manage their energy use by providing an evidence-based programme of communications activity and by supporting ‘active consumers’ through smart metering and smart energy services |
IN PROGRESS |
Ongoing. The National Energy Demand Strategy and consumer strategy in particular will assist consumers in managing their energy use. In addition, there are a number of more medium term measures under way in DCEE and its agencies towards this end, including the work of the Heat and Built Environment Taskforce (retrofitting, renewable heat, district heating networks, decarbonisation of heating and operational energy use optimisation in the building stock), SEAI’s Pathfinder programme for the public sector and DCEE’s Commercial roadmap for businesses seeking to decarbonise. |
|
4. To review gas connection policy and introduce gas demand flexibility measures |
IN PROGRESS |
Ongoing. CRU’s Large Energy User (LEU) connection policy was published in December, which establishes a pathway for new data centres to seek connection to the electricity system. |
|
5.To identify and support new, innovative approaches to integrating large-scale demand sustainably into Ireland’s energy systems that align with the overriding objective to decarbonise |
IN PROGRESS |
Large Energy User Connection Policy published by CRU 12th December 2025. Other related measures ongoing. |
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6. To utilise the National Energy and Climate Plan to ensure all policy incentives are aligned on a regular basis |
COMPLETE |
COMPLETE |
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7. To work within the updated European Electricity Market Design to continue to reduce emissions associated with Ireland’s conventional capacity over the medium-term |
IN PROGRESS |
2030 Consultation held in Q1 of 2026 on the options for decarbonisation of the Capacity Remuneration Mechanism (CRM). |
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8. To complete implementation of the CRU Security of Electricity Supply Programme |
IN PROGRESS |
2027 |
|
9. To increase resilience by implementing an updated, risk-based, evidence-based reliability standard in the electricity sector |
COMPLETE |
COMPLETE |
|
10. To implement consenting reforms and align to planning reforms to provide greater certainty to the sector |
IN PROGRESS |
The Environment (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2026 (No. 5 of 2026) was passed by both houses of the Oireachtas and signed into law on 12th March 2026. Supporting regulations to be developed over the course of 2026. |
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11. To ensure a fit for purpose electricity grid that supports Ireland’s energy and climate ambition |
IN PROGRESS |
Q4 2030 |
|
12. To accelerate delivery of power system flexibility |
IN PROGRESS |
Ongoing |
|
13. To successfully complete and integrate additional Electricity Interconnections |
IN PROGRESS |
The Celtic Interconnector is a 700 MW electricity interconnector currently being built between Brittany and East Cork, promoted, and developed by EirGrid, and French counterpart, Reseau de Transporte d’Électricite (RTÉ). Scheduled completion will be end of 2028. The Greenlink Interconnector project is a 500 MW subsea and underground electricity interconnector cable linking grids in Ireland (Wexford) and GB (Wales) with flow in both directions. It has been operational since Q1 2025. The MaresConnect Interconnector project between Ireland (Greater Dublin Area) and GB (Wales). Regulatory progress has seen cap and floor obtained in UK with Cap and Floor minded granting in Ireland with a final decision due 2026. Project commissioning is aimed for 2030. |
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14. To finalise studies to inform the development of long-term gas storage solutions which can store renewable gas, in particular hydrogen |
IN PROGRESS |
Research due Q4 2028 |
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15. To secure the existing onshore ‘Inch gas pipeline’ for wider strategic uses |
COMPLETE |
COMPLETE |
|
16. To ensure a fit for purpose gas grid, that supports Ireland’s energy and climate ambition |
IN PROGRESS |
CRU and GNI are undertaking a number of initial measures to support this medium- to long-term action. |
|
17. To create a Strategic Gas Emergency Reserve to protect Ireland in the event of a gas supply disruption as Ireland makes a secure transition to majority renewable energy |
IN PROGRESS |
Work on the Strategic Gas Emergency Reserve (SGER) project is progressing steadily, with recent site selection announcement achieving a crucial milestone. |
|
18.To strengthen supply chain of secondary fuels for Gas-fired power generation |
IN PROGRESS |
Substantively completed in 2024, with ongoing analysis of this area to continue in 2026 between relevant bodies. |
|
19. To resolve Long-Term Sourcing Issues for improved Oil Security |
COMPLETE |
COMPLETE |
|
20. To expand the energy expertise and capacity available to Government and representing Ireland Internationally |
IN PROGRESS |
Chief Technical Adviser appointed, with a new team in place. Dedicated graduate recruitment in place. New International division established and resources at EU level enhanced. |
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21. To regularly review the scope, functions and resourcing of the delivery organisations that are driving the energy transition |
IN PROGRESS |
Ongoing |
|
22. To integrate the forecasting framework for the electricity and gas sectors |
IN PROGRESS |
2027 |
|
23. To extend International Energy Agreements to support energy security |
IN PROGRESS |
MoU in place and continuing engagement with the UK. |
|
24. To continue to regularly Review Energy Emergency Exercises and Preparedness |
IN PROGRESS |
Ongoing. Exercises conducted, future exercises planned and actions being implemented following each Exercise. |
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25. To update the approach to Industry and Stakeholder Engagement in policy deliberation |
COMPLETE |
COMPLETE |
|
26. To enhance energy sector oversight and governance |
IN PROGRESS |
Ongoing. Review of CRU ongoing to enhance oversight, governance, resources and engagement with the CRU. |
|
27. To establish Annual Energy Security Reporting and Regular Energy Security Reviews |
IN PROGRESS |
SEAI published its 2025 outlook on Ireland’s energy supply and the security of that energy. |
|
28. To establish a permanent Energy Security Group |
COMPLETE |
COMPLETE |
92. Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment the key measures taken to control energy costs since January 2025; his priorities for same for the rest of 2026; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53450/26]
View answerAddressing energy affordability is a priority for this Government. That is why in June of last year, my Department established the National Energy Affordability Taskforce (NEAT) to identify, assess and implement measures that will enhance energy affordability for households and businesses while delivering key renewables commitments, and protecting security of supply and economic stability.
As part of Budget 2025, the Government approved a new tranche of electricity credits, the Electricity Costs Emergency Benefit Scheme IV through which over 2.2 million households received two payments of €125 (inclusive of VAT) in the November/December 2024 and January/February 2025 billing cycles, at a total estimated cost of €570 million (excluding VAT). To date €3.3 billion has been transferred through the four electricity credit schemes, providing support to nearly 2.3 million domestic households.
Electricity credits were always envisioned as a temporary, emergency measure. While necessary at the peak of the energy crisis, they are not fiscally sustainable, nor do they reduce the drivers of cost in the energy sector.
In 2025, a record capital budget of almost €550 million was allocated for the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland's (SEAI) residential and community energy upgrade schemes, including the Solar PV Scheme, to support over 64,500 home energy upgrades. Of this amount, a record €280 million was allocated to the Warmer Homes Scheme to provide fully funded upgrades for households at risk of energy poverty.
In 2025 the CRU also published enhanced customer protection measures for Winter 2025/2026. Some of the key customer protection measures included:
• a disconnection moratorium for reasons of non-payment of account for special services registered vulnerable customers which remained in place from 1 November 2025 to 31 March 2026, while the moratorium for priority services registered customers will remain in place all year;
• suppliers are required to ensure that all customers with a financial hardship meter are placed on the most economic or cheapest tariff. This includes a tariff that might otherwise only be available to, for example, a new customer or a customer as a retention offer; and
• promotion by energy suppliers of the vulnerable customer register.
The CRU will confirm enhanced customer protection measures for Winter 26/27 in due course.
A range of measures in Budget 2026 also supported households with energy costs, including:
• an extension until 2030 of the 9% VAT rate currently applied to gas and electricity bills;
• enhanced social protection payments including an increase to the Fuel Allowance rate and an expansion in the eligibility rules; and
• a record allocation of €640 million for SEAI's retrofit schemes.
Since 2019, capital expenditure of over €1.8 billion has delivered over 268,000 home energy upgrades, including over 36,300 fully-funded upgrades for households at risk of energy poverty under the Warmer Homes Scheme (to end May 2026).
A rooftop revolution is underway across Ireland. Over 112,000 homes have received solar PV grants since the scheme began. The SEAI have received over 15,000 applications for solar PV in 2026 (to the end of April). This is a 72% increase on the total applications in 2025. 99% of new housing is A-rated.
A number of protections are in place for customers experiencing difficulties in paying their bills. Anyone who is struggling with their bill is strongly encouraged to engage with their supplier. Suppliers have hardship funds and focused measures in place for any customers who finds themselves in difficulty and will not disconnect customers who engage with them.
It is important to note that the Department of Social Protection can also provide support through the Additional Needs Payment to help households meet expenses, including those who face difficulties with fuel bills.
On 12 April this year, the Government agreed a €500 million package of fuel supports. This was in addition to the initial €250 million in targeted supports announced in March, which was already among the largest (per capita) intervention of any EU Member State. These packages were announced following significant engagement with industry representatives.
Government have extended fuel supports and announced an extension of the temporary reductions to fuel excise and the National Oil Reserves Agency Levy. These temporary reductions were due to expire on 31 July and will now be extended in full until 31 August with a phased restoration to pre reduction levels taking place between September and December. In addition to these measures, the temporary enhancement to the Diesel Rebate Scheme for hauliers and road transport operators will be extended until 30 September 2026.
The National Energy Affordability Taskforce (NEAT) continues to work intensively on an Energy Affordability Action Plan to be submitted to Government in Q3 of this year. Publication of the Action Plan will follow approval by Government. This Action Plan will be focused on short, medium and longer term measures to support households and businesses in meeting their energy costs and will be built around 4 key pillars:
• addressing the price of energy;
• sustainable demand and enhancing flexibility;
• addressing energy poverty and customer protections; and
• energy affordability for businesses.
To facilitate this robust and coordinated cross-Government response, a number of NEAT subgroups have been established, bringing together officials from a wide range of Government Departments and Agencies. A period of intensive engagement to refine options for consideration by the Taskforce is currently underway, with subgroups meeting on an ongoing basis. This will include a determination of timelines for the actions included in the Plan.
This work is also being supported by structured engagement with relevant external stakeholders. This included a targeted stakeholder consultation session on tackling energy poverty. Consultation sessions with business groups and with the Electricity Association of Ireland and retail electricity suppliers have also taken place in recent weeks.
93. Deputy Paul Nicholas Gogarty asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment further to Parliamentary Question No. 90 of 22 January 2025, to provide an update on proposals for a scheme of legal aid for environmental litigation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53572/26]
View answerSection 294(1)(a) of the Planning and Development Act 2024 provides for the costs to be awarded to an applicant in respect of proceedings to which the section applies and in which the applicant succeeds in obtaining relief. S.I. No. 200/2026, Planning and Development (Costs of Part 9 Judicial Review Proceedings) Regulations 2026, which was commenced on the 18 May 2026 details the costs to be awarded.
There are currently no plans to bring forward legislation to give effect to the environmental legal costs financial assistance mechanism referred to in the Question.
94. Deputy John Clendennen asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment for an update on the energy affordability action plan; the timeframe for the plan to be published; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53721/26]
View answerAddressing energy affordability is a priority for this Government. That is why in June of last year, my Department established the National Energy Affordability Taskforce, the NEAT, to identify, assess and implement measures that will enhance energy affordability for households and businesses while delivering key renewables commitments, and protecting security of supply and economic stability.
The First Report of the Taskforce informed key aspects of Budget 2026 including:
• a 15% or €5 per week increase to the Fuel Allowance, providing an additional €140 to recipients during the annual fuel allowance season;
• eligibility for the Fuel Allowance was also expanded to include those in receipt of the Working Family Payment;
• an extension of the reduced VAT rate of 9% which is applied to gas and electricity to 2030. This provides clarity and certainty to energy consumers and reduces energy bills for households by up to €100 per year; and
• the €400 income tax disregard for households involved in microgeneration was extended for a further three years to end-2028.
A record €640 million has also been provided to support the SEAI’s residential and community energy upgrade schemes this year. This includes €340 million for the Warmer Homes Scheme which provides fully funded upgrades for households in energy poverty. The allocation means that more funding than ever will be available to make homes warmer, healthier, more comfortable and less expensive to heat.
The NEAT continues to work intensively on an Energy Affordability Action Plan to be submitted to Government this year. Publication of the Action Plan will follow after approval by Government. This Action Plan will be focused on short, medium and longer-term measures to support households and businesses in meeting their energy costs and will be built around 4 key pillars:
•addressing the price of energy;
•sustainable demand and enhancing flexibility;
•addressing energy poverty and customer protections; and
•energy affordability for businesses.
To facilitate this robust and coordinated cross-Government response, a number of NEAT subgroups have been established, bringing together officials from a wide range of Government Departments and Agencies. A period of intensive engagement to refine options for consideration by the Taskforce is currently underway, with subgroups meeting on an ongoing basis. This work is also being supported by structured engagement with relevant external stakeholders.
