CHAMBER PARTNER PROFILE
A powerful blueprint EirGrid has a unique and challenging role to play in leading the radical transformation of the electricity sector to low-carbon, renewable energy.
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s the national electricity grid operator, EirGrid needs to add more energy from renewable sources to the power system over the next nine years. Doing so is necessary to meet the government target of at least 70% of electricity consumption from renewable sources by 2030. This is an important step on the journey to 80% renewables and net zero by 2050. To assess how best to achieve the 2030 target, EirGrid embarked on a 14-week consultation process earlier this year, putting forward four approaches for developing the grid. The final roadmap contains a blended approach looking at grid development from an economic, technical, social acceptance and deliverability perspective and seeks to minimise impacts on communities, while still delivering on the renewable ambitions. The plan envisages 40 new grid infrastructure projects, representing a total investment of over €1bn. Throughout the ‘Shaping Our Electricity Future’ consultation, EirGrid held a range of engagement and participation activities, including six regional Chamber events and national industry forums. Speaking about the consultation, Head of Public Engagement, Sinead Dooley said: “EirGrid must transform the power system for future generations and we can only do this with public acceptance. This roadmap represents a blueprint for that transformation, with invaluable input from industry and the public.” The Shaping Our Electricity Future Roadmap was launched by EirGrid Chief Executive Mark Foley and Eamon Ryan, Minister for the Environment, Climate, Communications and Transport at the COP26 climate summit in November. FEEDBACK REFLECTED In terms of industry feedback reflected in the roadmap, there was favour for alternative and new technologies to be considered in any future network development. Similar to public feedback, there was no InBUSINESS | WINTER 2021
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Eamon Ryan, Minister for the Environment, Climate, Communications and Transport, EirGrid Chief Executive Mark Foley and Liam Ryan, EirGrid Chief Innovation and Planning Officer, unveiling the Shaping Our Electricity Future Roadmap at COP26
appetite for the price of electricity to rise because of the transition to a low-carbon electricity system. The need for electricity markets to evolve to support investment for new and existing market participants was highlighted and it was recognised that public acceptance is crucial for timely grid infrastructure delivery. On network reinforcements, industry responses showed support for the building of required network infrastructure to commence as quickly as possible to support renewables. For EirGrid, publication of this roadmap triggers the start of a multi-year journey to address emissions in the electricity industry and to support other sectors, such as heating and transport. The roadmap will be updated at least every two years, in response to the latest technology, economic, policy and system developments as EirGrid continues to work with stakeholders and the general public in making our energy system safe, affordable, secure, reliable and sustainable.
“EirGrid must transform the power system for future generations and we can only do this with public acceptance.”
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