Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 19 June 2025
208. Deputy Ryan O'Meara asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment if there are statutory planning guidelines for the construction of anaerobic digestors; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33275/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraIn line with the agreed sectoral emissions ceilings, Government has committed to supporting the production of up to 5.7 TWh of indigenously produced biomethane by 2030. A first step to realising this ambition was the publication of the National Biomethane Strategy which sets out twenty-five key strategic actions and outlines the necessary supports needed to drive growth across the biomethane sector. Chaired by my Department, the Biomethane Implementation Group will oversee delivery of the strategy.
While Anaerobic Digestors (AD), used to produce biomethane, can bring significant benefits to the communities and local environment in which they are located, they are also significant infrastructure, with impacts on the environment, biospheres, and local communities. Priority deliverables under the strategy include actions 5f and 5g which will see the development of planning guidelines to support local authorities when assessing AD plants with planning applications, and a review of resourcing requirements of key Government Agencies to support development of the industry. These actions will be delivered through collaboration among key Departments and Agencies.
Finally, it is the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage who has responsibility for the overall development of national planning policy and legislation, which includes the appropriate setback rules for AD facilities. AD and other integrated assets are required to undergo a planning process to ensure proper consideration of a range of factors, including location, visual impact, land-zoning plans, and ecology. Guidelines and requirements for these are currently set out through several acts, policy documents, spatial strategies, and development plans. Projects above a certain threshold are also required to complete an Environmental Impact Assessment.
