Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 15 July 2026
112. Deputy Pádraig O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment the measures being taken to ensure that increased electricity demand from electric vehicle charging does not contribute to further electricity price inflation for households; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53777/26]
Amharc ar fhreagra113. Deputy Pádraig O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment the measures being considered to protect households from increasing electricity network charges arising from higher peak-time demand associated with electric vehicle charging; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53778/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 112 and 113 together.
Responsibility for the regulation of the electricity market is a matter for the Commission for Regulation of Utilities (CRU) which is an independent regulator, accountable to a Committee of the Oireachtas and not to me, as Minister. The Commission for Regulation of Utilities (CRU) is responsible for setting annual network tariffs for use of the electricity system in Ireland. It is important to note that once the network tariffs are set, electricity suppliers determine how, and if, to pass on the costs to its customers.
The CRU is currently undertaking a multi-annual review of electricity network tariffs. The review will seek to put in place a framework for how network tariffs should be structured to ensure they are fit-for-purpose and cost-reflective, now and into the future. It will take account of changes to how we generate and consume electricity due to factors like technological change and decarbonisation. Electric vehicles are one source of new and uncertain demand which will be considered as part of this process.
Meanwhile, through the CRU and ESB Networks, we are expanding "Beat the Peak" initiatives and smart meter incentives, encouraging consumers and large energy users to shift their demand to times of high renewable surplus and reduce peak demand on the system. The National Energy Demand Strategy aims to make 20% to 30% of electricity demand flexible by 2030. A key aspect of this strategy is preparing households and businesses to maximise their use of renewables.
Government is deeply aware of the pressures placed on households and businesses by high energy costs. We are taking action to help households and businesses with these costs. That is why, on 12 April, the Government agreed a €500 million package of fuel supports. This was in addition to the initial €250 million in targeted supports announced in March, which was already among the largest (per capita) intervention of any EU Member State. These packages were announced following significant engagement with industry representatives.
Furthermore, the National Energy Affordability Taskforce is working intensively on an Energy Affordability Action Plan to be submitted to Government this year. This Action Plan will be focused on short, medium and longer-term measures to support households and businesses to meet their energy costs.
