Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 15 June 2023
117. Deputy David Stanton asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications to outline his plans to support the production of biomethane; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28880/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraIn line with the agreed Sectoral Emissions Ceilings and the Climate Action Plan, Government has committed to deliver up to 5.7TWh of indigenously produced biomethane by 2030. In order to deliver on this commitment, a dedicated Biomethane Working Group, chaired by the Department of Agriculture, Food and Marine, has been established. This Group, which reports into the Heat and Built Environment Delivery Task force, is overseeing an all-of-government approach to developing a National Biomethane Strategy to support the achievement of the 5.7TWh target.
Development of an anaerobic digestion industry is at a nascent stage in Ireland and a primary focus of the Working Group is the examination of the types of supports necessary to develop the industry. The group will also carry out extensive analysis on the best end use of this biomethane, paying particular focus on production in a sustainable manner. CAP 2023 has committed to delivering the National Biomethane Strategy by Q3 2023.
Government has also agreed to the introduction of an obligation on the heat sector to include renewable heat by 2024. The introduction of a Renewable Heat Obligation (RHO) will support and encourage the production of biomethane, and further increase the use of renewable heat. My Department is in the process of designing the next phase of stakeholder consultation activities which will directly inform the design of the RHO.
