Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 28 April 2026
279. Deputy Roderic O'Gorman asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment for an update on short to medium term measures that the Government will take to secure Ireland's energy supply and increase emergency rollout of renewable energy generation capacity; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29619/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe 'Energy Security in Ireland to 2030' strategy set out a clear vision to move away from reliance on imported fossil fuels to an electricity-led energy system.
On the electricity grid, increasing amounts of batteries, long duration storage, interconnector capacity and demand side response have been procured in recent capacity market auctions which will lessen Ireland's dependence on fossil fuel imports in the coming years.
The variable nature of some renewable technologies currently requires dispatchable gas generation to ensure security of supply. Government has set a target of 5.7 TWh of indigenous biomethane by 2030, to be delivered through the National Biomethane Strategy. In addition, the SEAI’s Decarbonised Electricity System Study will help define the role that renewable hydrogen should play in our power system.
The Renewable Electricity Support Scheme (RESS) is Ireland's flagship support scheme for grid-scale renewable electricity generators. 5 RESS auctions have been held to date, RESS 6 to take place later this year. 8 GW of renewable electricity generation capacity connected to the network (5 GW added in just ten years).
Regional Renewable Electricity Capacity Allocations for onshore wind and solar were included in the 2025 First Revision of the National Planning Framework. This is a critical step towards achieving Ireland’s national renewable electricity targets and will support a plan-led approach to the strategic planning of renewable technologies.
These measures will enhance Ireland’s energy security and the diversity of our electricity supply.
