Written answer
Renewable Energy Generation
Eight community applications have been accepted, but no SRESS projects are operational; a tariff review, including farmer tariffs and ownership rules, is due in 2026.
130. Deputy Pa Daly asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment in relation to small-scale renewable electricity generation (SRESS), to report on the tariff review; when it will be complete; if he is satisfied with the rate of community projects that are becoming energised; the measures he is taking to address the roadblocks they face; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [65742/26]
Comment on this
The Programme for Government commits to promoting the Small-Scale Renewable Electricity Support Scheme (SRESS) to simplify market access for community, SME and farmer-owned solar and wind projects.
The SRESS export tariff is designed for community, SME and farmer export only projects above 50kW to 6MW. SRESS offers a simpler route to market for those groups, with fixed tariffs for solar and wind. All other export projects up to 1MW can also apply to SRESS, and need not be community, SME or farmer owned projects.
Eight community applications have been accepted into the scheme. My Department is also processing additional applications that have been received.
My Department does not directly monitor SRESS project construction. However, projects must achieve key milestones in order to be eligible for SRESS support. These include achieving commercial operation.
No projects have reached commercial operation or begun exporting grid power under SRESS yet. The formal deadlines for energisation are in 2030 for community applicants to allow sufficient time for communities to develop their projects, though earlier completion is expected.
In February 2026, my Department commenced a review of the SRESS tariffs, to ensure tariff levels remain effective and that the scheme provides appropriate support and value for money to consumers. The existing tariff rates continue to apply while this work is underway, with completion expected later this year.
Furthermore, the review is considering the creation of a distinct farmer-specific tariff as well as potential partnerships between communities and developers, by reviewing the 100% community ownership requirement.
An assessment is also currently being carried out by the OECD to further assess barriers and propose recommendations to further support community energy development. Initial policy recommendations are due this year.