Sets out the Government’s response to the impacts of the war in Ukraine on the energy system in Ireland
This government has today published the National Energy Security Framework.
This Framework will provide an overarching and comprehensive response to Ireland’s energy security needs in the context of the war in Ukraine.
The war in Ukraine has demonstrated how important it is that Ireland pursue our energy independence at speed and scale. This framework sets out how Ireland is prepared to deal with potential impact this war could have on our energy system.
The Framework details supports and protections that are already in place and that are being enhanced, as follows;
a new targeted €20 million scheme for the installation of Photo Voltaic (PV) panels for households that have a high reliance on electricity for medical reasons;
a package of measures to enhance protections for financially vulnerable customers and customers in debt in the electricity and gas sectors;
a review of the price-drivers behind electricity and natural gas bills (including network costs) with a view to mitigating cost increases for consumers and businesses in the near term.
the continuation of the excise duty reduction on petrol, diesel and marked gas oil until the Budget in October 2022;
a reduction in VAT from 13.5% to 9% on gas and electricity bills from the start of May until the end of October;
an additional payment of €100 for all recipients of the Fuel Allowance;
the reduction to zero of the Public Service Obligation (PSO) levy on electricity bills.
Unfortunately, we are vulnerable to energy price increases because of our reliance on fossil fuels. This Framework will point us away from those fossil fuels and towards greater levels of indigenous renewable energy.
It also provides details on progressive measures that have already been put in place to support households and businesses, like the ambitious retrofitting scheme, which is already at an accelerated stage here due to prioritisation of the Midlands.
And while the new Framework is comprehensive, the Government cannot fully insulate against the uncertainties and impacts of the war. This means there is still a need for collective action to conserve our energy resources.
A public information campaign is in development to inform the public about the actions they can take to contribute to the national effort.
Further details can be found here: gov.ie - National Energy Security Framework sets out the government’s response to the impacts of the war in Ukraine on the energy system in Ireland (www.gov.ie)