The Irish Government has submitted an updated National Energy and Climate Plan to the European Union, addressing a previous critical assessment that found Ireland significantly behind its 2030 targets. The revised plan outlines measures to reduce emissions, transition to renewable energy, and improve energy efficiency.
Addressing Shortfalls and New Developments
The European Commission’s February report highlighted a 31.8% gap between Ireland’s required and projected greenhouse gas emissions cuts by 2030. Ireland is also predicted to fall short of its renewable energy target of 43%, with only 12.5% achieved in 2021 and a target of 31.4%. The new plan includes recent initiatives and developments not previously modeled, aiming to close these gaps.
Enhanced Efforts and Policy Development
The Government’s 455-page document acknowledges the gaps and commits to further policy development and broader societal efforts to meet the EU targets. It emphasizes the necessity of detailed pathways to achieve these goals. Since the Commission’s assessment, extensive efforts have been made to address the raised points, including bilateral meetings with the Department of Environment and the directorate generals for energy and climate of the European Commission.
Increased Ambition and Commitment
The updated plan reflects a step-up in ambition for Ireland’s emissions reduction targets. The Government has approved an ambitious national energy efficiency contribution for 2030. The document states, “It is clear from the projections that there are gaps to many of our targets. This will require further policy development and a broader effort from Irish society at large to ensure that we can close these gaps.”
Positive Trends and Future Focus
The Government highlights that Ireland’s greenhouse gas emissions reduced by 6.8% in 2023, with reductions in almost all sectors. This demonstrates that policies under previous Climate Action Plans are effective. The updated plan emphasizes building on these achievements and fully implementing the Climate Action Plan 2024, along with developing further policies to address areas where progress is lacking.
Ireland’s commitment to achieving the EU’s ambitious targets on greenhouse gas emissions, energy efficiency, and renewable energy is evident in this updated plan. By addressing previous shortcomings and increasing efforts, the Government aims to contribute significantly to global clean energy initiatives and the broader transition to a sustainable future.
Source：irishexaminer.com
