The Irish government have approved legislation intended to drive Ireland towards a zero emissions 2050. The bill will now be passed on to the Houses of the Oireachtas as a priority legislation.
Some of the key highlights of the bill include:
- The target of a carbon-neutral economy by 2050 has been set
- The target of 51% GHG reductions by 2030 compared to 2018, (requiring a 7% annual reduction this decade) has been set
- Climate targets will now be embedded into law
- The Climate Change Advisory Council’s role has been strengthened with added members and the ability to propose carbon budgets
- Climate Action plans for each sector will be updated annually
The government have also launched a public consultation on the climate conversation and how best to achieve the net zero goal. It will be open until 18th of May 2021.
Taoiseach Micheál Martin had this to say had this to say:
“This is a landmark day for Ireland. We all know that Climate Change is already happening, and the time to act is now. The Bill we are publishing today affirms our ambition to be a global leader in this field. As we begin our journey towards net zero emissions, the government is committed to tackling the challenges, and embracing the opportunities, this transition can bring our economy, our society and our country. We must continue to act, across Government, as there is no time to waste when it comes to securing our future.”
While the ‘Climate Action Plan 2021’ is being developed ‘The Interim Climate Actions 2021’ can be used as a base for review. It outlines some of the specific actions that will be taken and their timelines. Chief amongst these is the commitment to connect at least 5GW of offshore wind by 2030.
The development of an Irish Offshore Wind Network is essential for Ireland to achieve its 2050 goals. 5GW of offshore generation is a promising target but renewable generation is only as strong as the grid infrastructure around it. The government must ensure that offshore renewable generation is supported by a modern and fit for purpose grid that can decarbonise the Irish economy. This could help Ireland achieve its own energy goals as well as ultimately becoming an energy exporter.
The government have made a positive step with the tabling of this bill but only time will tell whether it will have its intended impact.
Both documents can be found here.