Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 27 November 2025
190. Deputy Louis O'Hara asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment following the publication of the review of Storm Éowyn (details supplied), if his Department is undertaking any work in progressing recommendation 4.8.6 focused on 'further exploration of the area of vulnerability, the identification of vulnerable persons and the management of personal information'; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [66893/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraDraft secondary legislation in order to operationalise aspects of Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2023/1162 on interoperability requirements and non-discriminatory and transparent procedures for access to metering and consumption data is at an advanced stage. This Implementing Regulation stipulated a number of requirements for Member States in relation to smart meters by creating new entities involved in the process of handling smart metering data, as well as requiring Member States to create a reference model for metering and consumption data access from smart meters.
Also included in these proposed Regulations will be amendments to SI 37/2022 compiled in coordination with the Commission for the Regulation of Utilities, ESB Networks and the Data Protection Commission giving the Distribution System Operator the firm legislative basis to collect and process smart meter data for the purposes of managing the distribution network, including grid development and management, managing smart meters, and related activities.
The Smart Meter Data Access Code (SMDAC), published 19 February 2025 by the CRU enables suppliers and others to deliver value to customers through the development and introduction of new smart services and products. The provision of smart meter data creates opportunities to offer additional services to customers, such as more accurate and personalised price comparisons, better tailored tariffs, and analysis of customers’ energy consumption. In addition, the provision of smart meter data under the SMDAC will also support the operation of the electricity network, while helping Ireland to meet its climate action targets. The introduction of the SMDAC will ensure that smart meter data is handled in an appropriate way, in accordance with all relevant data protection legislation. The Department's proposed Regulations will work in tandem with the SMDAC to ensure that Smart Meters my be fully utilised to protect vulnerable customers while ensuring that their information is handled in a safe and compliant manner.
