Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 24 February 2026
184. Deputy Brian Brennan asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment the lessons which have been learned relating to grid resilience from recent storm events, such as storm Chandra; the initiatives being introduced to try to mitigate the impact of future events; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14773/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Government is taking steps to improve the resilience of the grid in response to severe weather events.
As demonstrated through recent weather events, robust coordination and engagement between ESB Networks (ESB-N) and local coordinators has led to an improved and more efficient response.
In February 2025, I asked ESB Networks to prepare a Winter Resilience Plan to enhance the grid in the most vulnerable locations following Storm Éowyn. Core work undertaken includes:
• remedial works to the network;
• working with Coillte and the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine to identify segments of the network at highest future risk;
• replenishing emergency stocks, spare parts and materials;
• increasing staffing levels and available contractor resources; and
• establishing formal mutual aid arrangements for extreme weather events.
ESB-N is also increasing the number of access officers who engage with landowners on forestry work.
My Department is currently preparing legislation to enhance ESB-N’s powers to manage vegetation. The Government approved the Heads of this Bill in July and work on advancing the legislation continues as a matter of priority.
On 16 December last, the Commission for Regulation of Utilities (CRU) published Price Review 6 (PR6) which sanctions investment in the grid to 2030. The CRU have proposed approval of an investment of up to €18.9 billion, with a €13.8 billion baseline investment guaranteed.
Under the 2024 National Adaptation Framework, a new suite of Sectoral Adaptation Plans (SAPs) across 13 key sectors, including electricity and gas networks, were approved and published by Government in November 2025.
The Electricity and Gas Networks Sectoral Adaptation Plan (EGN SAP) aims to enhance the future resilience of the energy sector to the long-term impacts of climate change. The plan will ensure the energy sector can effectively manage risks and maintain service continuity into the future.
