The Government recognises the need for the electricity sector to become more adaptable and flexible in response to the ever-increasing volume of distributed renewable energy sources on the grid and an increasing electricity demand. To ensure reliability in such a distributed energy system, as well as to minimise the network upgrades (and costs for all) needed to accommodate peaks in demand, it will also be vital to align electricity usage with periods of plentiful, low-cost renewable generation. Ireland’s citizens (including energy poor and vulnerable households) can play a central role in this transition by flexibly managing their energy assets in response to the level of renewable energy on the grid and, by doing so, can lower their energy bills and reduce their carbon footprint.
Furthermore, my Department is leading the Cross Government Energy Affordability Taskforce which aims to identify and assess measures to enhance energy affordability for households and businesses, operating within the broader policy context set by the Programme for Government. This includes the commitment to explore the methods, including legislation, that can be used to divert surplus renewable energy to homes in fuel poverty.
A key objective of this Taskforce is to develop and publish an Energy Affordability Action Plan which will identify a comprehensive range of solutions, including demand-side solutions for households to allow them to adjust their energy demand and avail of low cost, or otherwise surplus renewable energy. The Taskforce will also ensure effective cooperation across the relevant Agencies.
The First Report of the National Energy Affordability Taskforce identified a range of outputs and the four main energy suppliers in Ireland made funds available this past Winter to offer assistance to customers who are struggling to meet their energy costs and who are engaging with their supplier. Many suppliers are also partnering with NGOs on specific initiatives and/or programmes of work, proactively engaging with customers in arrears, incentivising smart tariff uptake and implementing accessible payment plans.
My Department is also currently working to develop further initiatives that can enable consumers to flexibly adjust their demand in response to market signals and the changing level of renewable energy available. In addition, my Department is working to transpose European legislation to promote energy sharing to support an increased uptake of renewable energy, and help vulnerable customers or those affected by energy poverty.
