Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 26 February 2026
227. Deputy Erin McGreehan asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment whether his Department has assessed the risk that fuel suppliers may opt to use buy-out provisions rather than invest in renewable fuel blending infrastructure under the proposed obligation rates; and the implications this would have for emissions reductions. [15723/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraDesign of the Renewable Heat Obligation (RHO) included two phases of analysis, multiple stakeholder engagement activities, and extensive industry engagement.
Feedback received informed a full impact assessment on the RHO structure, including consideration of key scheme parameters such as a buy-out provision, starting obligation rates and the likely economic and social impact of the obligation.
Based on an extensive examination of the level of obligation required to meet Ireland’s renewable heat targets, decisions made in relation to the Government approved Renewable Heat Obligation Bill 2025 are considered sufficient to incentivise market participation in the RHO and support the achievement of Ireland’s climate and energy targets.
Detail in relation to each phase of RHO analysis is available at: www.gov.ie/en/department-of-climate-energy-and-the-environment/publications/renewable-heat-obligation/
