Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 18 March 2026
127. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment whether Ireland remains committed to UN Sustainable Development Goal 7, namely ensuring access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all, considering both energy price hikes and Ireland's persistently high emissions. [20097/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Programme for Government commits to accelerating Ireland’s progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030 and to adopting a coordinated approach to drive impactful action globally, both at home and abroad, addressing critical areas such as poverty eradication, climate action, access to affordable and clean energy and improved living standards for all. The 2030 Agenda aims to achieve the SDGs for all people and for all groups of society. A key commitment under the 2030 Agenda is that no one should be left behind. SDG 7 is to ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all.
Energy affordability is a priority for this Government. The interim report of the National Energy Affordability Taskforce was published last November and set out measures for consideration in the Budget 2026 process. The Government acted in the Budget and provided significant supports to enhance energy affordability. This included increased rates of payment and widened eligibility for Social Protection payments, a reduced rate of VAT on electricity and gas, as well as the biggest ever retrofit budget.
The Department of Social Protection also provides support through the Additional Needs Payment to help households meet expenses, including those who face difficulties with fuel bills.
Regarding price-setting, ultimately, this is a matter for energy companies. To address supply issues, Ireland shall participate in the International Energy Agency’s (IEA) 400-million-barrel release of strategic oil reserves through the National Oil Reserves Agency (NORA).
Furthermore, I continue to engage with energy retailers to ensure that hardship funds and focused measures are in place for any customers who find themselves in difficulty. A range of protections are also in place for customers experiencing difficulties in paying their bills.
Finally, Ireland reached a major milestone in its clean energy transition last week, achieving 8GW of installed renewable electricity capacity. This marks a significant step in our transition to securing our energy future and achieving SDG 7 at home.
