Eighty-two new renewable energy projects are set to go ahead after the Irish government approved the results of the first Renewable Electricity Support Scheme (RESS) auction. This RESS scheme will support investment in Ireland of over €1.4 billion and support the recovery by creating roughly 1,000 jobs. Solar projects will play a critical role in diversifying Ireland's renewable generation portfolio for the period out to 2030.
Speaking at the announcement of the auction results, Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment, Eamon Ryan TD said:
"I am delighted to welcome the final results of the first auction under the new Renewable Electricity Support Scheme. The first RESS auction provides us with a platform for rapid deployment of onshore wind and solar projects at scale and at least cost, replacing fossil fuels on our energy grid. The results are very competitive and represent a significant saving on previous support schemes".
Community Involvement in Energy Projects
The Programme for Government recognises the importance of community involvement in energy projects. The first RESS auction promoted community-led projects and included mandatory community benefit funds for all projects. Minister Ryan said:
"We have exceeded our target for Community projects participation. Seven communities are being supported to produce their own power and share in the ownership of Ireland's energy revolution while inspiring others to follow. We expect that our next auction will have a higher share of community-based renewables."
The community benefit fund under RESS-1 will deliver approximately €4.5 million a year to sustainable community initiatives targeted at those communities living in close proximity to the RESS-1 Projects.
Source: www.gov.ie/en/press-release/08388-solar-wind-and-community-energy-projects-set-to-deliver-14bn-in-investment-and-1000-jobs-after-government-approves-renewable-energy-auction-results/
