Written Answers Nos. 241-265
241. Deputy Gary Gannon asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment the consultation responses received in relation to the draft regulations on costs under section 294 of the Planning and Development Act 2024; the number of submissions that raised concerns regarding compliance with EU law and the Aarhus convention; whether the proposals will be revised in light of those submissions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5599/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe proposal for a scale of fees for certain successful environmental judicial review should be seen within the context of the wider work being undertaken by the Government to improve infrastructure delivery. The measure is intended solely to bring greater predictability and proportionality to the costs incurred by the State in defending such proceedings.
The proposal itself relates to secondary legislation necessary to implement a provision in primary legislation, as passed by the Oireachtas in the Planning and Development Act, 2024. The provisions of the Act are designed to meet the “adequate and effective remedies and be fair, equitable, timely and not prohibitively expensive” requirements of the Aarhus Convention.
It is an important that such initiatives are prepared and brought forward in a transparent and inclusive way. The public consultation ran for six weeks, resulting in a very strong response of more than 1,400 submissions. The large volume of submissions received indicates both the public interest in the proposal and the inclusiveness of the consultation process.
Given the number of submissions received, all of which will be given due consideration, I am not in a position at this point to indicate the numbers of submissions that supported, partially supported or opposed the proposed approach. It is my intention to publish a report on the consultation and to publish all submissions received on the Gov.ie website with personal information redacted.
242. Deputy Barry Ward asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment if he would consider creating a targeted SEAI operated schemes for non-institutional landlords that would seek to increase the uptake in retrofitting projects by landlords to ensure that rented properties meet a high level BER rating; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6034/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraRental properties can present a specific challenge for energy efficiency improvements. This is an issue found in most countries where the incentives to invest in energy upgrades can be misaligned between landlords and tenants.
A range of energy upgrade supports are available to non-corporate landlords and Approved Housing Bodies (AHBs) to improve the efficiency of their rental properties including:
• the National Home Energy Upgrade Scheme, delivered through the One Stop Shops, provides grant support for private landlords (with higher supports available for AHBs) seeking to upgrade their property to a B2 level;
• the Better Energy Homes Scheme for step-by-step retrofits and Solar PV Scheme provides support for private and commercial landlords; and
• the Community Energy Grant Scheme (CEG) supports cross-sectoral, partnership approaches that deliver energy savings to a range of building types. The CEG Scheme is suitable for private and commercial landlords and is focused on the delivery of homes.
In addition to these supports, a tax incentive is available to encourage small-scale landlords to undertake retrofitting works while the tenant remains in situ. This measure provides for a tax deduction of up to €10,000 per property, against Case V rental income, for certain retrofitting expenses incurred by the landlord on rented residential properties, for a maximum of two rental properties. Full details are set out in Section 32 of the Finance Act 2022.
Private landlords can also apply for low cost loans under the Home Energy Upgrade Loan Scheme. The scheme is available nationwide and homeowners, including landlords, can borrow from €5,000 to €75,000 on an unsecured basis for a term of up to 10 years at significantly lower interest rates to those currently on the market. Rates start from as low as 2.99% with the price varying depending on the finance provider. In 2025, the group of participating lenders was expanded to include Avant Money (in partnership with An Post) and seven credit unions from the Irish League of Credit Unions.
The SEAI has a dedicated page on their website which provides more detailed information on the range of options available to private and commercial landlords who wish to make their properties more energy efficient. The page can be accessed at: [www.seai.ie/grants/home-energy-grants/supports-for-landlords] .
243. Deputy John Paul O'Shea asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment the current Government policy in relation to radon gas in residential properties; the level of funding or financial supports available to homeowners where harmful levels of radon are identified and remedial works are required; if he will consider the introduction of a targeted grant scheme to assist households in remediating high radon levels; the steps being taken to improve public awareness of radon risks particularly in high-radon areas; if consideration has been given to a national awareness campaign comparable to those addressing other cancer risks; if he will review the absence of any statutory requirement for landlords to test rental properties for radon in order to protect tenant health and safety; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6476/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraRadon gas is recognised as a serious threat to public health and is estimated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to be responsible for approximately 350 cases of lung cancer annually in Ireland. In response to the public health risks posed by radon gas, the Government established a National Radon Control Strategy (NRCS). The overarching objective of the NRCS is to minimise the exposure to radon gas for people in Ireland and to reduce to the greatest extent practicable the incidence of radon related lung cancers. Implementation of the Strategy is overseen by an interdepartmental and agency NRCS Coordination Group chaired by my Department.
A review of the work undertaken during Phase 2 covering the period from 2019 to 2024 will be submitted to Government and published in the coming months. A Mid-Term Report to Government on Phase Two of the NRCS was published in 2023 and is available at [www.national-radon-control-strategy-phase-two-2019-2024-mid-term-report-to-government.pdf], and includes updates on the improved radon risk map, citizen engagement, awareness raising, review of the 2018 financial supports research study, radon preventive measures and remediation training courses.
Phase 3 of the NRCS is currently being finalised by the NRCS Coordination Group, which includes representatives from the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage and the Department of Health, to ensure that all efforts are made to support the overall objective of the Strategy.
244. Deputy Donna McGettigan asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment the provisions in place to protect power supplies to homes and other businesses when there is excess power demand, potentially caused by data-centres; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5453/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraPlanning, building, safely operating and maintaining the electricity system are functions which are assigned to the respective Distribution and Transmission System Operators, who are independent of me as Minister in the exercise of their respective functions. They are accountable to the independent regulator, the CRU.
EirGrid regularly reviews forecasted electricity demand through the Generation Capacity Statement and All-Island Resource Adequacy Assessment. Similarly, the CRU regularly reviews electricity connection policies to ensure they align with national policy. Each of these organisations have a dedicated email address for Oireachtas members. As such the Deputy may wish to engage with EirGrid, ESBN and CRU directly via [oireachtas@eirgrid.ie] , [oireachtas@esb.ie] and [oireachtas@cru.ie],
It should be noted that data centres can provide significant flexibility to the electricity system, by reducing demand at times of system constraint. This flexibility can be provided through market mechanisms or, in specific emergency situations, through a process known as Mandatory Demand Curtailment.
Notwithstanding the high demand for new electrical connections, which has led in certain instances to capacity constraints on the electricity grid, over the last four years ESB Networks has connected over 147,000 homes and businesses to the distribution network, and housing developments continue to be offered grid connections.
My Department engages with the CRU, ESB Networks and EirGrid on a regular basis on the increased demand from the electrification of our economy and society, as well as increased housing demand. Additionally, the Department has formed a cross-organisational group, the Urban Capacity Contact Group, to ensure the continued provision of connection agreements for housing and enterprise.
This work supplements Government measures to ensure Ireland's electricity grid continues to provide capacity for housing and other customers which includes a €3.5 billion equity investment in EirGrid and ESB Networks, and ongoing cooperation to accelerate grid delivery in the Accelerating Renewable Energy Taskforce.
245. Deputy Alan Kelly asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment the amount his Department has spent on legal fees for each of the years 2020-2025, in tabular form. [5531/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe information requested by the Deputy is attached to the answer in tabular form.
The Deputy should note that the legal fees advised do not encompass areas which transferred out of my Department in 2025. The Deputy should contact my colleague the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport for any records pertaining to the Communications function.
|
Year |
Legal Fees incurred |
|
2020 |
0 |
|
2021 |
0 |
|
2022 |
0 |
|
2023 |
0 |
|
2024 |
€99.650 |
|
2025 |
€1.084 |
|
Total 2020-2025 |
€100,734 |
246. Deputy Gary Gannon asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment to provide a breakdown of expenditure by his Department and bodies, agencies or organisations under his remit on paid verification services on a platform (details supplied) or any other verified account products, for each of the years 2023, 2024, 2025 and to date in 2026; the number of verified accounts held under each category; the annual cost per account; the total annual cost incurred; the procurement basis under which these services were purchased, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5625/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department did not incur any expenditure on verification services, premium accounts or subscription-based services on the platform in the years listed.
The information sought in this Question in relation to each agency or public body under the aegis of my Department is an operational matter for each of the State Bodies concerned and, as such, it is not information held by my Department. It is suggested that the Deputy contact the Bodies directly in relation to this matter. A list of these Bodies and their dedicated Oireachtas email addresses is attached.
|
List of Agencies under the aegis of Department of Climate, Energy and the Environment |
|
|
Bord na Mona |
oireachtas@bnm.ie |
|
CRU |
oireachtas@cru.ie |
|
Eirgrid |
oireachtas@eirgrid.ie |
|
EPA |
oireachtasqueries@epa.ie |
|
ESB |
oireachtas@esb.ie |
|
IFI |
oireachtas@fisheriesireland.ie |
|
INPC |
enquiries@nora.ie Loughs |
|
Loughs Agency |
oireachtasqueries@loughs-agency.org |
|
MARA |
oireachtas@mara.gov.ie |
|
NORA |
enquiries@nora.ie |
|
SEAI |
oireachtas@seai.ie |
247. Deputy Conor D. McGuinness asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment when the introduction of the disposable coffee cup levy, as promised in the Circular Economy Act 2022, is planned to take place. [5651/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraLegislative powers are in place, through the Circular Economy Act 2022, to implement environmental levies on a range of single use products including single-use cups, single-use containers and other forms of single-use packaging.
In 2022, the Department commissioned a Regulatory Impact Analysis (RIA) on the introduction of a levy on single use cups and a public consultation on draft regulations was undertaken. It was envisaged at the time that a levy might be introduced in a similar way to the plastic bag levy (i.e. at the point of sale in a retail premises).
Following further engagement with the Revenue Commissioners, a different collection model, collecting the levy when cups are first placed on the market by producers or importers, was discussed. Such a revision would require an amendment of the Circular Economy and Miscellaneous Provisions Act 2022. The Department is working with the Revenue Commissioners on designing the provisions required to make this amendment.
Furthermore, in 2025, the Department commissioned an update to the RIA to explore the potential impacts of the revised collection model and any other policy measure to reduce single use cup consumption effectively. That work is close to finalisation and will inform next policy steps.
248. Deputy Martin Daly asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment the number of households in electricity and gas arrears in 2025, as reported by the Commission for Regulation of Utilities, and the level of disconnections carried out. [5676/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraRegulation of retail energy markets is solely a matter for the Commission for Regulation of Utilities (CRU) since the enactment of the Electricity Regulation Act 1999 and subsequent legislation. However, officials from my Department correspond with the CRU on an ongoing basis to track developments in retail and wholesale energy markets, including arrears levels, among other indicators.
The CRU releases market monitoring data monthly to my Department, including items such as estimated annual bills for households and the number of households in payment arrears on their electricity and gas bills. The most recent of these releases includes the most up-to-date estimated annual bills and the latest available data on the number of customers in arrears which is attached. As arrears data operates with a two-month time lag due to the way suppliers report these figures to the CRU, the latest arrears data is for October 2025.
|
Domestic/Commercial Electricity and Gas Customers Arrears, Disconnections (Month) |
Domestic Electricity Arrears >90 days |
Domestic Gas Arrears >90 days |
Domestic Electricity Number of Arrears |
Domestic Gas Number of Arrears |
Domestic Electricity Number of Disconnections |
Domestic Gas Number of Disconnections |
|
January 2025 |
154,281 |
134,106 |
237,053 |
163,537 |
6 |
3 |
|
February 2025 |
155,597 |
134,048 |
258,338 |
171,330 |
120 |
128 |
|
March 2025 |
162,393 |
134,749 |
286,553 |
175,514 |
253 |
210 |
|
April 2025 |
167,770 |
135,677 |
300,653 |
175,347 |
145 |
136 |
|
May 2025 |
176,449 |
138,965 |
301,379 |
174,891 |
145 |
176 |
|
June 2025 |
182,696 |
146,327 |
298,336 |
183,520 |
256 |
130 |
|
July 2025 |
186,874 |
150,362 |
305,300 |
186,225 |
457 |
146 |
|
August 2025 |
188,616 |
154,542 |
307,862 |
186,594 |
263 |
84 |
|
September 2025 |
187,307 |
153,658 |
297,313 |
179,576 |
373 |
108 |
|
October 2025 |
186,054 |
152,430 |
300,515 |
176,723 |
311 |
64 |
|
November 2025 |
n/a |
n/a |
n/a |
n/a |
n/a |
n/a |
|
December 2025 |
n/a |
n/a |
n/a |
n/a |
n/a |
n/a |
249. Deputy Roderic O'Gorman asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment for an update on the 34 actions detailed under the "Looking forward to 2025" section of the ARET Annual Review 2024-2025 and Key Actions 2025-2026 published in July 2025; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5728/26]
Amharc ar fhreagra260. Deputy Malcolm Byrne asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment to provide an update on the work of the Accelerating Renewable Electricity Taskforce; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6157/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 249 and 260 together.
The Accelerating Renewable Electricity Taskforce’s Management Office in my Department published the Annual Summary Report 2024/2025 and Key Actions 2025/2026 in July 2025. This report sets out the the previous year’s key achievements and actions delivered, highlights challenges faced and presents key actions for 2025/2026.
In 2025 key achievements under the aegis of the Taskforce included the delivery of the RESS 5 Auction, the inclusion of Regional Renewable Electricity Capacity Allocations in the revised National Planning Framework, and the identification of priority grid infrastructure projects.
Work has begun on the Taskforce’s Third Work Plan, which will include a review of the 2025/26 Actions and set out the strategic direction of the Taskforce for 2026/27. I expect to publish this report in Q2 2026.
The Accelerating Renewable Electricity Taskforce comprises some twelve Government Departments and State Agencies and is supported by Working Groups across the taskforce pillars and with relevant industry associations attending Taskforce meetings. The 11th Meeting of the Taskforce took place on Monday, 26 January.
250. Deputy Roderic O'Gorman asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment for an update on the 27 actions detailed under the "Looking forward to 2025" section of the Offshore Wind Energy Programme Annual Review 2024 and Key Actions for 2025 published in June 2025; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5729/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Offshore Wind Delivery Taskforce (OWDT) comprises some 16 Government Departments and agencies working together with industry representatives to deliver on Ireland’s offshore wind ambitions. The "Looking forward to 2025" section of the Offshore Wind Energy Programme Annual Review 2024 and Key Actions for 2025 published by the OWDT encompassed 27 Key Actions for 2025. My officials are engaging with workstream leads to complete a review of the 2025 Offshore Wind Delivery Taskforce work programme, following which an annual report for 2025 and key actions for 2026 will be published.
Some high-level 2025 milestones for offshore wind included:
• ongoing engagement with the planning process to progress 5 Phase One offshore wind projects that will deliver 3.8 GW of electricity capacity;
• publication of the Proposal and Public Participation Statement for a National Designated Maritime Area Plan (DMAP) for Offshore Renewable Energy;
• the successful ORESS auction of the Tonn Nua offshore wind development site;
• grid development including significant increases of funding announced via the National Development Plan and publication of CRU’s Price Review 6;
• completion of Port of Cork redevelopment works to accommodate construction and maintenance of offshore wind, and
• the launch of the ‘Clearing House’ for offshore wind.
The review process for the 2025 OWDT work programme is anticipated to be complete in Quarter 1 2026, with publication of the Annual Review 2025 and Key Actions for 2026 also expected in Quarter 1.
251. Deputy Roderic O'Gorman asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment if he will initiate a review of the National Retrofit Plan and the related Better Energy Homes; Warmer Homes and the Solar Electricity Grant schemes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5730/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Programme for Government commits to ramping up the achievement of retrofit targets through continued delivery of the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland's (SEAI) residential and community energy upgrade schemes, including revising and improving the provision of grants and financing models for homeowners who wish to retrofit, enhancing energy efficiency and reducing costs; as well as supporting group retrofitting projects and area-based approaches to retrofitting.
The commitments in the Programme for Government are framing the work underway by my Department in continued delivery and development of the SEAI residential and community energy upgrade schemes. Increasing the uptake of energy efficiency upgrades and measures among homeowners is a key priority for my Department.
Budget 2026 has provided record funding of €558 million for the SEAI residential and community energy upgrade schemes this year. This is an increase of €89 million on the Budget 2025 allocation. This funding is being further supplemented with additional monies, such as an allocation from the European Regional Development Fund, which will provide for an increase in the allocation for the Warmer Home Scheme. These allocations are published as part of the Revised Estimates Volume. The 2026 total budget allocation provides for a record capital budget of over €640 million for the SEAI residential and community energy upgrade schemes, including the Solar PV Scheme, and to support over 73,000 home energy upgrades in 2026.
Government is committed to taking decisive action to provide warmer, more comfortable homes, as part of our drive to support energy affordability, security, and sustainability.
Following Government approval at Cabinet this week, I have published a National Residential Retrofit Plan and an enhanced set of measures to increase the delivery of home energy upgrades. The National Residential Retrofit Plan 2026, including its new and enhanced set of measures, will continue to make home energy upgrades more accessible and affordable: and support more homes to be more sustainable and energy-efficient, reducing reliance on fossil fuels, and lowering energy costs for households.
252. Deputy Roderic O'Gorman asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment the amount provided each year to the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) from the European Regional Development Fund; the schemes this money supported and the average spend per scheme per year;; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5731/26]
Amharc ar fhreagra€264 million has been secured from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) for the period 2021 to 2027. This ERDF funding is drawn down to support additional upgrades under the Warmer Homes Scheme. While the current ERDF funding round covers the years 2021-2027, an agreement was not reached on proceeding with the allocations until 2023. The ERDF funding for the Warmer Homes Scheme was €34.216m in 2023 and €66.638m in 2024. A final figure for 2025 is not yet available but will be included in my Department's 2025 Appropriation Account once published.
253. Deputy Roderic O'Gorman asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment to provide a breakdown of all current taskforces under his Department’s remit; the objectives and progress of each taskforce; if he plans to set up any additional taskforces, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5732/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe information requested by the Deputy is attached in tabular form, as requested. There are currently 8 taskforces under my Department's remit. There are currently no plans to set up any additional taskforces.
254. Deputy Roderic O'Gorman asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment for an update on the development of a just transition strategy by his Department; when he expects this Strategy to be published; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5733/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraLast year, my Department published its Statement of Strategy for the period 2025-2028. This Strategy includes the key strategic objective to provide climate leadership to accelerate the delivery of a just transition to climate neutrality. As a key action to deliver on this objective, my Department will develop a just transition strategy.
The Just Transition Strategy will be developed over the course of 2026 with publication expected in Q4 2026. This timeframe will allow for a range of meaningful inputs to inform the strategy development including specific just transition focussed research, and engagement with relevant stakeholders.
The development of the strategy is in line with the recommendations of the Just Transition Commission's 2025 Introductory Report.
255. Deputy Roderic O'Gorman asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment for a detailed update on the work of the Just Transition Commission; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5734/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Just Transition Commission is an independent advisory body established on an administrative basis by Government Decision of 30 April 2024. The Commission supports the Government in its responsibility to provide that Ireland’s transition to the National Climate Objective has regard to the requirement for a just transition.
In line with their Terms of Reference, the Commission's 2024-2027 work programme includes but is not limited to the following items:
• an analysis of the potential impacts on Ireland’s workforce, and policy implications, of achieving the 2050 climate neutrality objective;
• an assessment of the integration of principles of Ireland’s Just Transition Framework in climate policies;
• advice on the strengthening of the local and community dimensions of just transition and strengthening engagement with vulnerable cohorts into Ireland’s climate engagement activities, in particular the National Dialogue on Climate Action, as well as sectoral dialogues; and
• recommendations on a set of just transition indicators.
The Commission is responsible for the management and direction of its own work programme. According to their Terms of Reference, the Commission are required to keep the Minister with responsibility for climate up to date on their activities, and an opportunity for such an update shall be afforded at least once a year.
In this context, I met Ms Ali Sheridan, Chair of the Commission in May 2025, and with the Chair and Members of the broader Commission in September 2025. I am scheduled to meet the Chair again in the coming weeks.
The Commission submitted their first report to me in June 2025. In their report, the Commission articulated recommendations on the mainstreaming of this horizontally applicable policy, such as the need to develop a strategic approach and stronger structures around the implementation of the just transition principles into climate policy. Developing and implementing a Just Transition Strategy is now a key deliverable in my Department’s 2025-2028 Statement of Strategy.
The Government remains committed to the principle of a just transition and I look forward to my engagements with Ms Sheridan and the Commission again in 2026 and to hearing about their upcoming projects and recommendations in this very important policy area to inform the Government's approach to ensuring a fair transition to climate neutrality.
256. Deputy Roderic O'Gorman asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment given the ongoing instability caused by the USA foreign policy and potential for economic sanctions and tariffs between the EU and USA, if the Government developed contingency plans for alternative energy supply given Ireland’s reliance on importing US petroleum and gas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5741/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraIreland imports oil as both crude oil and refined petroleum products. Crude oil is processed at the Whitegate refinery which supplies approximately 25% of Ireland’s total oil demand. Over the past five years, Ireland has imported on average 60–70% of its crude oil from the United States.
Approximately 75% of Ireland's oil demand is sourced through the importation of Refined petroleum products, primarily from the United Kingdom, the Amsterdam–Rotterdam–Antwerp (ARA) region and other European suppliers. Less than 4% of refined product imports were sourced from the USA in 2024.
In addition, Ireland, through NORA, holds 90 days oil reserves.
Natural gas is sourced from indigenous production at the Corrib gas field and imports via the Moffat interconnection point to the UK gas network.
The development of the Strategic Gas Emergency Reserve is being progressed as a priority and this will further enhance the energy security of Ireland.
My Department works with a variety of agencies, including the IEA, around emergency planning in the energy sector in order to prepare for a range of different scenarios. This work is ongoing and reflects any particular developments that may warrant specific attention.
257. Deputy Roderic O'Gorman asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment for an update on work of the Energy Security Group, including completed and ongoing areas of work; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5742/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Energy Security Group (ESG) is chaired by the Secretary General of my Department and attended by officials from relevant Government Departments and Agencies. The 28 actions outlined in Energy Security in Ireland to 2030 are overseen by the ESG.
Energy Security in Ireland to 2030 was published in November 2023 and outlines a strategy to ensure energy security in Ireland for this decade, while ensuring a sustainable transition to a carbon neutral energy system by 2050. The report was published as part of an Energy Security Package, containing a range of supplementary analyses, consultations, and reviews, which have informed the recommendations and actions related to energy security.
The attached table provides an update on the 28 actions.
258. Deputy John Connolly asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment the position in relation to the Government’s commitments regarding the use of surplus renewable electricity, as outlined in the Programme for Government, including the exploration of legislation to divert surplus renewable energy, that would otherwise be wasted, to households experiencing energy poverty; his plans to utilise surplus renewable generation to reduce energy poverty through community-level benefit schemes; the progress made to date; the further steps planned for 2026; the way in which these actions are being coordinated across relevant agencies; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5992/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe 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.
259. Deputy Malcolm Byrne asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment his strategy for repowering existing windfarms when existing turbines reach end of life. [6156/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraIreland is a world leader in onshore wind with over 5GW of installed capacity. The continued operation of Ireland's fleet of onshore wind farms is critical to ensuring a secure and affordable energy supply to 2030 and beyond. Repowering of existing wind farms has the potential to deliver an increase in generation capacity, usually by replacing older, less efficient turbines with newer models with higher capacities, with limited additional environmental impact. Extension of lifetime of existing windfarms also has a key role to play in ensuring a secure, renewable electricity supply.
The Programme for Government 2025 highlights the role that repowering of existing wind farms can play in achieving our ambitious target of 9GW of onshore wind in the near term.
Repowered projects are currently eligible to compete for support under the Renewable Electricity Support Scheme (RESS) auctions, subject to the eligibility criteria set out in the Terms and Conditions of the scheme. For repowered projects specifically, these include that the annual renewable electricity output of the repowered project will be at least 50% greater than the annual average output of the previous project.
The Renewable Energy Directive requires Member States to introduce accelerated and simplified permitting procedures for the repowering of renewable energy projects. Through the Accelerating Renewable Electricity Taskforce, my Department is working closely with the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage on a range of policy measures, including repowering of existing renewable electricity projects, to ensure that there is a supportive policy framework in place that facilitates the accelerated deployment of renewable developments and supports a streamlined process for repowering of existing windfarm projects.
My Department also engaged consultants to conduct an independent analysis on the repowering and life extension of Ireland’s current installed onshore wind energy projects. The project is currently ongoing and the final analysis will help to inform the requirement for any necessary future policy framework that supports repowering of onshore wind farms.
261. Deputy Malcolm Byrne asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment to provide an update on the current DMAP process; the timeline for its completion; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6158/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraDesignated Maritime Area Plans (DMAPs) are a critical piece of the Government’s strategic plan for managing our maritime area to ensure that developments take place in a sustainable, plan led manner.
A National DMAP for Offshore Renewable Energy is now underway to cover the entire Irish maritime area and help deliver Ireland’s target of 20GW offshore renewables by 2040. The development of the National DMAP is currently on track with the DMAP Proposal and Public Participation Statement published in September 2025, and extensive stakeholder consultation is planned through 2026-2027. External project supports have now been put in place for statutory environmental assessments, fisheries liaison, community liaison and project management. Interdepartmental consultation engagements took place in Q4 2025, while sectoral workshops with the ORE industry, the seafood sector and environmental NGOs are scheduled for Q1 2026. These stakeholder workshops commence the extensive public and stakeholder consultation on the National DMAP that will take place over the course of 2026 and 2027.
This National DMAP for ORE is scheduled to be delivered by the end of 2027. The DMAP will designate space to deliver 20GW of offshore renewable energy taking account of the Phase one projects and sites already designated by the South Coast DMAP.
This approach directly supports the Programme for Government commitment and will provide greater certainty for all marine stakeholders and the renewables industry. This strategic plan will outline the development and management of offshore renewable energy resources off Ireland’s coast, and will provide a clear and sustainable framework for developing offshore renewable energy, balancing economic growth, environmental protection, and community engagement to support Ireland’s transition to a low-carbon future.
262. Deputy Malcolm Byrne asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment the role he envisions for the community of Arklow, County Wicklow in the development of the offshore renewable sector in Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6161/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe planned Arklow Bank Wind Park II offshore wind project is planned for a location off the coast of Arklow, Co. Wicklow.
SSE Renewables are delivering this project. However, I understand that SEE Renewables, the developer of the Arklow Bank Wind Park II project, has engaged extensively with local communities, including those in Arklow, Co. Wicklow, in the project’s development process. Prior to SSE lodging its planning application with An Coimisiún Pleanála, I am advised that a significant level of public consultation was undertaken by SSE with local communities in Wicklow and Wexford, with feedback received refining the planning application in June 2024.
Furthermore, I understand that the project has secured planning consent for the development of an operations and maintenance base at Arklow Harbour, out of which 80 full-time employees would be based. A further 2,300 direct and indirect jobs would be supported throughout the project’s delivery and operational lifetime. A Community Benefit Fund will be established by SSE for the benefit of local communities, and the project is expected to deliver an overall national economic benefit of €800 million, with around €400 million of that local to the Wicklow and Wexford region. The project will also support local companies in the supply chain, including in Arklow Harbour, during the construction and operation phases.
More widely, the Arklow area may also derive economic benefits from other offshore wind projects that may be proposed for the East coast region in the future.
263. Deputy Malcolm Byrne asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment the State supports which are available to companies, universities and postgraduate students to carry out of research in the field of renewable energy. [6162/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraFunding to support research in the field of renewable energy is available from my Department through the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) National Energy Research Development and Demonstration (RD&D) Funding Programme. This Programme invests in innovative energy RD&D projects which contribute to Ireland's transition to a clean and secure energy future. The programme is open to public and private sector organisations based in Ireland who wish to carry out projects in Ireland. Through its 2024 annual call, this programme awarded approximately €20m in funding to support innovative energy RD&D projects.The SEAI also provides research fellowship funding for individuals through the SEAI ENERGISE Fellowship Programme, which includes funding for researchers in academia or based within SEAI. Both programmes typically run an annual call for proposals during Q1 each year.
Further information on SEAI supports are outlined on the SEAI website at www.seai.ie/seai-research/research-funding
Earlier in January, Research Ireland launched its Public Service Fellowship Programme whichoffersresearchersa unique opportunityto betemporarilyseconded to Government Departments and Agencies to work onspecific projectswhere they can add valueresulting in mutually beneficial outcomes. There are five fellowship opportunities within my Department, two of these are energy-related, one focused on energy systems modelling, and another on electricity storage policy. There are also four energy-related fellowship opportunities within the SEAI. Fellowships can have a duration of between 6 and 12 months if full-time, and between 12 and 24 months if part-time. The maximum award amount is €130,000 direct costs. The deadline for applications to this call is the 16 April 2026.
Further details of the Research Ireland Public Service Fellowship are available at:
www.researchireland.ie/funding/public-service-fellowship/
Alongside the above supports, there are a number of additional established supports and funding sources available. National funding opportunities include the above research and innovation supports provided by the SEAI, and also by Enterprise Ireland, and Research Ireland; and at European level through the European Commission Horizon Europe Programme and the EU Innovation Fund.
My Department is also the National Contact Point (NCP) for the EU Innovation Fund, with further details available on Gov.ie at:
www.gov.ie/en/department-of-climate-energy-and-the-environment/publications/innovation-fund/
264. Deputy Malcolm Byrne asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment his strategy to ensure that career opportunities in the renewable energy sector are promoted to second level students. [6163/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs Minister, I do not have direct responsibility for education, skills and careers. The Department of Education and Youth is responsible for secondary education and further education is the responsibility of the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science (DFHERIS). I am advised that Green Skills 2030, the first National Further Education and Training Strategy for the Green Transition, was launched by SOLAS, an agency under DFHERIS, in October 2024. This identified the demand for skills related to the green economy across sectors including Construction and Built Environment; Engineering, Energy, and Manufacturing and Transport and Logistics. The https://a.storyblok.com/f/70398/x/5eb093ebc1/green-skills-2030-implementation-plan-final-web.pdfoutlines specific objectives, recommendations and actions (strategic and sectoral) to be progressed engaging diverse audiences, including second level students.
To help achieve our Offshore Renewable Energy ambitions, the cross-government Offshore Wind Energy Programme has established a dedicated Skills and Workforce Workstream led by the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science (DFHERIS) and my Department.
This Workstream has convened an Expert Advisory Group (EAG) made up of representatives from Further and Higher Education, Government Departments, agencies and industry, with sub-groups focussing on delivery of the required skills with the objective of creating a sustainable skills pipeline for the sector. Implementation of Skills Action Plan for Offshore Wind is embedded in regular EAG meeting discussions, with its three subgroups (Promoting Careers in Offshore Wind, Manufacturing & Supply Chain, and Programme Design and Delivery) progressing work through related projects.
Example of measures developed with young people in mind include comprehensive marketing campaigns on various social media platforms and development of live websites such as www.workinwind.ie/, www.poweroftomorrow.ie/. Those resources provide guidance on skills, learning pathways and career opportunities in the emerging offshore wind industry, as Ireland scales up its skills and talent pipeline to power our renewable energy future.
265. Deputy Pa Daly asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment if he is aware of instances within the SEAI's retrofitting programme whereby works carried out caused damage to the property and/or did not function correctly; if he has met with the SEAI to discuss this issue; if he has considered updating the code of conduct for contractors; the processes through which this code is enforced; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6276/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) is responsible for the administration of a range of home energy upgrade schemes funded by my Department.
The SEAI administer their schemes in line with a code of practice, technical guidance documents and the SEAI Customer Charter. They also operate a quality assurance programme to monitor and maintain contractor standards.
The management of SEAI schemes is an operational matter for the SEAI as an agency under the aegis of my Department. It is suggested that the Deputy contact the SEAI directly in relation to this matter. The SEAI has established a specific email address for queries from Oireachtas members so that such queries can be addressed promptly and in line with the SEAI’s objective to deliver services to the highest standards. The email address is pq@seai.ie.
