The new Renewable Electricity Support Scheme is currently in development and will provide support to renewable electricity projects in Ireland such as wind, solar and anaerobic digestion.

The scheme will promote a gradual move to a market-based support for renewable energy.

This will result in a shift from a guaranteed fixed price for renewable generators (as per existing renewable energy feed in tariffs) to a more market orientated mechanism (renewable auctions) where the cost of support will be determined primarily by competitive bidding between renewable generators.

The first auction is expected to take place in the second quarter of 2020. The progress of the scheme was detailed at the Cré Composting and Anaerobic Digestion Association conference held in Kildare this week.

Key updates:

  • The pre-notification application for State aid has been submitted and State aid clearance is expected in the first three months of 2020.
  • The detailed design of the first auction is currently being developed and targeted by the end of 2019.
  • The DCCAE is currently working together with the Commission of Regulation of Utilities and EirGrid to commence the qualification process for the first RESS auction by the end of 2019. This auction will include an all-industry workshop on the mechanics and process of the auction.

    • The new RESS scheme in development by Department of Communications, Climate Action and Environment (DCCAE) will assist Ireland in meeting its 2030 renewable energy contribution target of 70%.

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