179. Deputy Carol Nolan asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment if he will examine the feasibility of establishing a single renewable liquid fuel obligation scheme covering all liquid fuels used in heating and transport, modelled on the renewable transport fuel obligation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [62308/26]

The primary objective of the Renewable Heat Obligation (RHO) is supporting the achievement of Ireland’s heating related climate and energy targets. As such, all renewable fuels, including renewable liquid fuels that satisfy the sustainability criteria of the Renewable Energy Directive, will be considered eligible for certification under the scheme and contribute directly to Ireland’s heating and cooling targets (RES-H).

The Renewable Transport Fuel Obligation is designed to increase the use of renewable fuels in the transport sector, helping to reduce the emissions impact of petrol and diesel and contribute directly to Ireland’s transport related targets (RES-T).

Priority drafting of the RHO Bill is now at an advanced stage and 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 the overall scheme design were based on an extensive examination of the level 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 our climate and energy targets.