Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 24 September 2024
71. Deputy Christopher O'Sullivan asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if the Government has invested in, or has plans to invest in, district heating systems; and if so, to provide details of the investment. [37340/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraDistrict heating is a proven technology that can decarbonise the built environment, diversify fuel sources for heat, and improve quality of life. The 2022 National Heat Study identified the potential of district heating to supply up to 54% of heat supply nationally and, crucially, it identifies the prospect of using this technology in large towns and cities across Ireland where demand is concentrated, and heat sources are prevalent.
The Government’s Climate Action Plan has a key target for district heating of 800 GWh by 2025 and 2,700 GWh by 2030. The 2030 target equates to approximately 10% of Ireland's residential heat demand.
The Government has financially supported the development of district heat networks in Ireland through the Climate Action Fund (CAF). There is a large-scale scheme operational in Ireland, which was developed by South Dublin County Council (SDCC) in Tallaght and supported through €4.48 million funding from the CAF. It uses waste heat from a data centre and supplies low-carbon heat to customers including SDCC and Technological University Dublin.
