Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 7 October 2025
33. Deputy Maeve O'Connell asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment when he expects the Heat (Networks and Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill 2024 will progress to its next Stage; and for an estimated timeline for when the CRU will be appointed as regulator for all heat networks. [53254/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe draft Heads of the Heat (Networks and Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill 2024 were approved by Government on 30 October 2024. The legislation is intended to provide the statutory underpinning for the development and expansion of district heating networks as well as the establishment of a regulatory model for district heating that ensures consumer protection and the delivery of a vibrant district heating industry.
The Bill is currently being drafted with the support of the Office of Parliamentary Counsel (OPC). In order to progress the Bill, officials from my Department are actively engaging with the OPC drafter, the Department's own legal team and external stakeholders. We now expect drafting to be completed in early 2026. The Commission for Regulation of Utilities will be appointed as regulator for heat networks on enactment of the Bill.
