Foreword

A measure of ambition…

Speaking recently at Energy Ireland 2021, the Executive Vice President for the European Green Deal, Frans Timmermans, said that the journey to climate neutrality across the EU by 2050 must start immediately, asserting that any delay would provoke more radical measures in the future and make action more difficult for society to accept. Timmermans was speaking in the context of the EU setting out its most ambitious target yet of greenhouse gas emissions reduction by at least 55 per cent by 2030, but more important than the ambitious target, the Fit for 55 package set out a range of legislative proposals and policy initiatives. There is a recognition that Ireland has been a leader in establishing its energy transition ambition; ambition which is expected to be enhanced further in the forthcoming Climate Action Plan. But there is also a recognition that, as Timmermans emphasises, action must begin immediately. Brian Ó Gallachóir, Director of MaREI, succinctly summarised this, highlighting the three core elements of successful policy: Targets, plan, and measures. Ireland has set ambitious targets for the energy transition, those targets are supported by plans, for example, 70 per cent renewable electricity by 2030, one million EVs, 500,000 retrofits and over 600,000 heat pumps. However, there is a noticeable gap linking targets to measures. Some measures have been initiated, for instance both the carbon tax and the launch of RESS-1, but gaps exist in delivering measures to address areas such as renewable heat and flexibility of the electricity system. The ambition of climate neutrality by 2050 will require a wholesale change of the energy system, driven by dramatic changes to each component of that system. It is imperative that measures are put in place now to drive step changes within those sectors, if 2030 and 2050 ambitions are to be realised.

This year’s Renewable Energy Magazine examines much of the progress which has already been made and highlights areas where action is required. A step up of ambitions is explored with Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications Eamon Ryan TD on his plans for raised ambitions. The cover story with Bord na Móna outlines a prime example of an organisation that has embraced the need for transition, evolving into a leading climate solutions company. SSE’s roundtable discussion engages stakeholders on the injection of urgency into Ireland’s response to the climate crisis. We also hear from a range of experts on the challenges which remain.

David Whelan