169. Deputy Carol Nolan asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment the details of the proposed obligation rates under the renewable heat obligation scheme; the rationale for setting the initial rates at 1.5% rising to 3%; if he will consider increasing these rates to a more effective level to support meaningful emissions reduction in the heating sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [62304/26]

170. Deputy Carol Nolan asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment the current status of the renewable heat obligation scheme; the reason the legislation was not published before the Dáil summer recess as previously indicated; the revised timeline for publication; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [62303/26]

171. Deputy Carol Nolan asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment if he will assess the potential compliance costs for the liquid fuel industry arising from the renewable heat obligation scheme; the expected impact on consumers; if he will revise the scheme to ensure that costs are proportionate to environmental benefit; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [62305/26]

176. Deputy Carol Nolan asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment the expected emissions reduction impact of the renewable heat obligation scheme at the proposed obligation rates; if his Department has modelled higher obligation rates to determine their potential effectiveness; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [62311/26]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 169, 170, 171 and 176 together.

The Government is committed to ensuring a secure, affordable and sustainable energy system for all consumers, and timely introduction of the Renewable Heat Obligation (RHO) is a key priority for my Department. Priority drafting of the RHO Bill is now nearing completion. Once finalised, I intend to submit the final scheme to Government for approval and priority publication as part of the Autumn legislative programme.

Decisions made in relation to initial starting rates were based on an extensive examination of the scale of obligation required to meet Ireland’s renewable heat targets, and the resulting impact on end consumer costs. The scheme is considered appropriate and effective to support market participation and achievement of energy and climate targets.

Detail in relation to each phase of analysis, including a full impact assessment is available at: www.gov.ie/en/department-of-climate-energy-and-the-environment/publications/renewable-heat-obligation/.

Any increase to obligation rates from year 3 will be subject to a further review of market conditions and scheme performance and take into consideration the most cost effective and affordable way to achieve our renewable energy and climate targets.