The STaTe of Ireland 2016

Transcription

A review of infrAstructure in irelAnd
a revIew of InfraSTrucTure In Ireland
www.engineersireland.ie
www.engIneerSIreland.Ie 1
contents
Director General’s foreword
3
Executive summary
4
Energy Advisory Group
5
Abbreviations and definitions
5
Summary of key recommendations 2016
6
Grading system
6
Energy
8
Communications
25
Transport
26
Water supply and wastewater
28
Flood management and water quality
29
Waste
30
2 engIneerS Ireland
with over 23,000 members from every
discipline of engineering, engineers Ireland is
the voice of the engineering profession in
Ireland.
we have been representing the engineering
profession since 1835, making us one of the
oldest and largest professional bodies in
Ireland.
our members represent every discipline of
engineering, and range from engineering
students to fellows of the profession.
our responsibilities are to:
■ promote knowledge of engineering
■ establish and maintain standards of
professional engineering and engineering
education
■ provide opportunities for continuing
professional development (cPd) for
engineers
■ maintain standards of professional ethics
and conduct
■ ensure that professional titles are granted
to qualified candidates, and
■ act as the authoritative voice of the
engineering profession in Ireland
DIRECTOR GENERAL’S FOREWORD
The sixth in an annual series of independent reports on Ireland’s infrastructure, ‘The State of
Ireland 2016’ is a timely intervention in the conversation about Ireland’s future.
After more than six years of recession, we have arrived at a period of
infrastructure networks. in 2016, we have taken a different approach and
sustained, though fragile, growth. According to the european
developed a new methodology for assessment. the main body of the
commission country report for ireland (february 2016), the strong
report focuses primarily on the energy sector, with short updates on the
rebound of the irish economy has broadened and gained further
other four areas of communications, transport, waste and water. these
momentum. legacy issues nevertheless persist, and the commission
other areas will be focussed on in depth in future state of ireland reports.
identifies infrastructure needs as one of our key remaining challenges.
ireland’s energy infrastructure is critical to our competitiveness and is of
particular importance as we move to a carbon-free society. As an island
Infrastructure for prosperity
nation, security of supply is paramount to ensure the health and
if ireland is to prosper, infrastructural development will be an essential
well-being of our citizens. As a member of the european union and the
contributory factor. High-quality infrastructure is an important element of
global community, our commitments under the eu renewable energy
a modern society and economy. it strengthens economic growth through
directive and coP21 mean that we have to develop a more efficient and
enhancing efficiency, productivity and competitiveness. it also underpins
sustainable energy system, moving away from fossil fuels and greenhouse
social cohesion through providing vital facilities for citizens. engineers
gas (GHG) emissions. this type of shift to renewable fuels requires
ireland firmly believes that our public investment programme must
investment in new technologies and infrastructure to support the
increase significantly if we are to meet increased demands for a modern
transition from a high-carbon, fuel import economy to one that is carbon
european public infrastructure. the current capital Plan ‘Building on
free and practically self-sufficient. this transition period will require
recovery’ (Bor) (2015), which presents the Government’s commitment to
leadership and long-term planning to develop and build the infrastructure
exchequer investment of €27 billion over the six-year period 2016-2021,
required. courageous decisions will have to be made now to ensure that
falls short of addressing the gap. we strongly urge the new Government to
future generations enjoy a carbon-free society by 2100. these decisions
initiate the mid-term review provided for in Bor, and commit to increased
will have to be supported by the public and a transition of this nature is
funding that is both adequate to meet the investment level required and
heavily dependent on their engagement.
provides certainty to the public, investors and industry. importantly, any
increased investment must be the result of an evidence-based discussion
Expert opinion
about long-term planning. infrastructure policy, planning and
the energy section of this report has received input from a large group of
decision-making are inexorably linked to the political process because of
experienced engineers, working in organisations that specialise in energy
the use of public funds. Political leadership is therefore required in
infrastructure. the consolidation of their opinions into this report over a
determining what kind of future societal and economic model we wish to
series of round table discussions is designed to inform those who make
have, where we allocate resources and how we build consensus to support
policy and capital investment decisions about infrastructure in ireland,
decision-making for the long term. Addressing a round table discussion
including permanent members of Government as well as private investors.
with industry leaders and senior policy makers, hosted by engineers
we hope that the report gives rise to debate on the future development of
ireland earlier this year, institution of civil engineers (ice) President sir
ireland’s infrastructure and that attention is paid to the recommended
John Armitt described a similar challenge faced in the uK, which led to the
actions, which we believe are essential to the continued growth of the irish
establishment of the national infrastructure commission – an
economy and to achieving our renewable energy, GHG and energy
independent body whose remit is long-term strategic decision-making to
efficiency targets.
build effective and efficient infrastructure for the uK.
i would like to thank all those who gave up their time to contribute to this
year’s report. the knowledge and experience of our diverse membership
Single entity needed
has resulted in an informed document, which comments on policy that
engineers ireland has advocated for the establishment of a single entity
affects us all.
charged with prioritising integrated infrastructure development in this
country. there are many examples internationally of how such an entity
could be structured to best support the determination and implementation
of policy on infrastructure – decoupled from the electoral cycle. this entity
would also be responsible for co-ordinating a long-term, cross-sectoral
approach to building political and public consensus and understanding on
national infrastructure performance, under a range of possible futures.
the annual ‘state of ireland’ report is a further contribution by engineers
ireland on the performance, capability and condition of ireland’s key
Caroline Spillane
Director General
engIneerS Ireland 3
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
this report looks at five key areas of infrastructure –
enlighten and empower the energy
communications, energy, transport, water and waste. our
citizen, are necessary.
engineering experts assign grades based on the current
the introduction of res in
status of key infrastructure and its ability to meet
electricity generation has
future demand. A number of action
progressed well through the
items for the short and medium
public service obligation
term are also recommended.
(Pso) and other financial
in 2016, energy infrastructure has
incentives for developers.
been examined in greater detail,
technological advances and the
given the recent publication of the
development of additional res to
department of communications,
generate electricity will all contribute
climate change and natural
to the successful achievement of the
resources (dcccnr) energy white
target (res-e).
Paper and the approaching deadline of
Government leadership is required to
2020, the limit for achieving the first
drive through the changes required
set of renewable energy source (res),
in the heating/cooling (thermal) and
energy efficiency and carbon
transport sectors.
emission targets.
Policy makers should learn from tools
like the rest of europe, ireland
such as the Pso and incentive schemes
is obliged under the eu
like refit, which were successfully used
renewable energy directive to
to introduce renewable energy into
achieve certain targets and
electricity generation and apply these to
contribute to the global move
towards a sustainable energy
assist with accelerating efforts to reach the res-H
and res-t targets.
supply that is secure and
affordable. failure to achieve these
Policy action
targets could result in significant fines
Policy changes for specific technological actions that result in the
from the eu.
introduction of more sources of res infrastructure are required,
ireland is on track to achieve the national res for electricity
including building anaerobic digestion plants to generate biogas, as
generation target (res-e). However, ireland needs to accelerate its
well as deep retrofits of domestic, commercial and public buildings
efforts, as based on its current trajectory it is not likely to reach the
to reduce energy demand and decrease the amount of renewables
res targets for heating/cooling (thermal) (res-H) and transport
required to achieve the 2020 target and beyond.
(res-t). the knock-on effect is not achieving the overall res.
ireland’s private car fleet makes the biggest contribution to co2
similarly, the energy efficiency and carbon emission goals are likely
emissions, and should be tackled as a priority, given that it is almost
to be missed.
all fossil fuel burning, with only a small portion of electric vehicles
(evs) in private ownership. improvements in technology, financial
Renewable energy
incentives and changes in attitude towards electric cars are all
ireland’s energy efficiency performance is inadequate and a
required to ensure the shift that is required in the majority mindset.
significant change in how we consider and measure energy
our research capabilities are vibrant and diverse and should remain
efficiency is required to ensure that it becomes part of long-term
so, with particular focus on developing technologies that exploit the
infrastructure planning in the future. A new approach to planning in
natural resources we have on our doorstep.
ireland is required and a non-departmental independent body
All of our efforts must be supported by adequate legislation, which
should be established to look at strategic infrastructure.
allows for infrastructure planning and development that ensures the
ireland’s citizens have a huge role to play in ensuring that ireland
delivery of large infrastructure projects.
successfully achieves all of the targets. changes in behaviour with
regard to how we use energy, and more accepting attitudes towards
Other areas
new technologies, will be required. Adult and school-based
shorter updates on communications, transport, water and waste
education programmes, and stakeholder awareness campaigns to
infrastructure are contained at the back of this report.
4 engIneerS Ireland
ENERGY ADVISORY GROUP
■ John Ahern, Managing director, indaver
■ Paul Hickey, Manager, systems and sustainability, esB
networks
■ Dermot Byrne, vice President, engineers ireland
(deputy chairman)
■ Fionnuala Kilbane, editor, 53ten technical communications
■ Kelley Cousins, Marketing and communications,
■ Dónal Kissane, chairman, energy and environment division
engineers ireland
(Gas networks ireland)
■ Geraldine Ann Cusack, senior Business specialist, energy
■ Eoghan Lynch, Group leader ireland, Arup
and environment, siemens
■ Cormac Madden, regulation and strategy, esB
■ Prof. Tony Day, executive director, international energy
■ Terry Nolan, energy consultant
research centre
■ Colm O’Mahony, energy sector Head, PM Group
■ Dr Paul Deane, senior researcher, energy Policy and
■ Paul O’Reilly, Partner, ors
Modelling Group, ucc
■ Damien Owens, registrar, engineers ireland
■ Tom Egan, Head of PowerGen, Bórd na Móna
■ Tina Raleigh, director, energy Projects, fehily timoney & co.
■ Dr Kieran Feighan, vice President, engineers ireland (chairman)
■ John Ringwood, director, centre for ocean energy research,
■ John Fitzgerald, director, Grid development and interconnection,
eirGrid
nui Maynooth
■ PJ Rudden, Group Business director ireland and uK
infrastructure, rPs Group
■ Paddy Hayes, executive director, Generation and wholesale
Markets, esB
■ Henry Smyth, Head of economic regulation and technical,
■ Brendan Heneghan, interim ceo, irish wind energy Association
ervia
(iweA)
ABBREVIATIONS AND DEFINITIONS
BEF
–
BOS
CCS
CER
–
–
–
CFRAM
–
CHP
–
CNG
–
CO2
–
DCCCNR –
EV
–
better energy
financing scheme
biofuels obligation scheme
carbon capture and storage
commission for
energy regulation
catchment flood risk
assessment and
management
combined heat
and power
compressed natural gas
carbon dioxide
department of
communications, climate
change and natural
resources
electric vehicle
FiT
GHG
PAYS
PSO
–
–
–
–
PV
REFIT
–
–
RES
RES-E
–
–
RES-H
–
RES-T
–
feed-in tariff
greenhouse gas
pay-as-you-save scheme
public service
obligation levy
photovoltaic
renewable energy feed
in tariff
renewable energy sources
contribution to electricity
generation
contribution to
heating/cooling energy
contribution to transport
energy
RHI
SEAI
–
–
renewable heat incentive
sustainable energy
Authority of ireland
tCO2
– total carbon dioxide, a
measure of carbon dioxide
Waste-to-energy - or
energy-from-waste (EfW)
is the process of
generating energy in the
form of electricity and/or
heat from the primary
treatment of waste.
renewable energy from
waste is generated from a
source that can be
replenished including
municipal solid waste
and landfill gas.
engIneerS Ireland 5
SUMMARY OF KEY RECOMMENDATIONS 2016
ENERGY
C
12-month
■ continue to diversify ireland’s electricity fuel generation mix and
■ develop an implementation plan with clear targets
and milestones, which details actions around the
many ambitions identified in the energy white Paper
■ Progress the north–south interconnector to further bolster security of
supply and reduce cost to the consumer, as well as exploring other
interconnection options with a view to developing them if and when
appropriate
expand the renewables base
■ Maintain investment in the transmission and distribution networks to
meet the needs of a growing economy and the transition from fossil
fuels to renewables
■ explore technology solutions such as energy storage and further
interconnection to address variable renewable generation
■ encourage renewable energy in ireland and harness ireland’s already
■ Publish details regarding the renewable Heat incentive (rHi) in 2016
as promised, prioritising large industry to commence switching to
renewable energy, which should dovetail with smaller industry and
domestic residences
identified naturally occurring renewable resources
■ carry out a deep retrofit of ireland’s domestic dwellings and public
buildings to reduce energy demand and increase energy efficiency
■ convert the 900,000 homes that are not connected to the gas network,
■ Accelerate education programmes for communities and individuals on
the benefits of energy efficiency and switching to renewable fuels
through retrofitting their homes or community-driven district heating
and which use solid fuel or oil for heat, to an appropriate electric
heating solution
■ incentivise the production of biogas from anaerobic digestion plants to
enable 20% of natural gas be displaced by biogas from the gas
systems
■ the Government should lead by example, with ministers encouraged to
replace their existing fossil fuel-powered cars with hybrids or electric
vehicles (evs)
distribution system
■ encourage industrial locations that are off the natural gas network to
implement biomass solutions for their thermal (heating/cooling)
■ irish state agency car, van and bus fleets should also be progressively
converted to electric, compressed natural gas (cnG) and hybrid
modes, respectively, with the cnG network rolled out as planned
requirements
■ Accelerate the purchase of evs by irish consumers through soft
incentives such as the use of bus corridors, revisiting the registration
tax and exploring other financial incentives
Five-year
■ continue to build out the necessary charging infrastructure to keep
■ review and revise energy policy every three to five years, and inform
the process with reports on progress made, gaps to target and new
technological developments
pace with ev adoption
■ ensure that public transport is more accountable in delivering the
res-t and carbon emission targets
GrAdinG systeM
Analysis of key areas of infrastructure includes a straightforward grading system.
Engineers Ireland has assessed each area of infrastructure using the following grades:
GrAdinG
scAle
A = 90-100%
B = 80-89%
C = 70-79%
D = 51-69%
E = 50% or lower
6 engIneerS Ireland
ABCDE
Well maintained, in
good condition,
appropriate
capacity and
planning for future
development
Acceptable
standard, properly
maintained, able to
meet demand,
though investment
needed in the next
five years
Inadequately
maintained, and/or
unable to meet
peak demand, and
requiring
significant
investment
Below standard,
poorly maintained,
frequent inability to
meet capacity and
requiring
immediate
investment to avoid
adverse impact on
national economy
Unacceptable
condition,
insufficient
capacity, and
already impacting
on the national
economy
COMMUNICATIONS
B
Five-year
■ Place an immediate focus on eliminating current boil water
12-month
■ Award the national Broadband Plan (nBP)
intervention to a contractor(s) and confirm the
deployment schedule nationally
■ continue the roll-out of the 4G mobile networks nationally and
protect the quality of traditional mobile services such as voice
notices and ensure that the risk of further notices is addressed by
2021
■ Progress construction of required wastewater infrastructure so
as to achieve compliance with the urban waste water
treatment directive and eliminate the 45 untreated discharges
by 2021
■ continue to reduce service costs when rates and speeds are not
equal in rural/urban areas
Five-year
FLOOD MANAGEMENT
AND WATER QUALITY
■ roll-out of affordable high-speed broadband services nationally
■ ireland’s national broadband infrastructure should be in the top
five of european league tables in terms of availability, uptake and
speed
C
12-month
■ continue to engage with local communities to
develop specific measures for each regional area
■ continue to research and develop the network in anticipation
of 5G services
impacted by flooding
■ complete the flood risk management plans, setting out the
long-term strategy for flood risk management
TRANSPORT
■ complete the second cycle of river basin management plans
12-month
C
■ Progress funding mechanisms for delayed
national road projects countrywide
■ improve road management systems in conjunction
with increased road maintenance funds
■ Progress development of second runway at dublin Airport
■ develop solution for north dublin and dublin Airport rail
Five-year
■ develop a national future flood forecasting service
■ implement the measures and actions set out in the flood risk
management plans in a timely manner
■ Provide annual updates on the progress of the implementation of
the water framework directive
■ continue to invest in improved facilities for pedestrians and
cyclists, in particular in the major cities
WASTE
Five-year
12-month
■ Accelerate the prioritisation of investment in infrastructure
projects to increase ireland’s competitiveness and address the
unemployment challenge
C
■ continue the roll-out of the organic waste
supporting the national transition to
pay-by-weight charging
■ Progress the planning process for port redevelopments in cork
and Galway
collection system to households and businesses,
■ compile and publish a live register of waste treatment facilities to
■ Agree standards for data formats and communication protocols
for integrated traffic systems to enable information sharing
■ continue to work towards the development of an integrated, frequent
support the roll-out of future investment
■ identify weaknesses in the current policy environment, such as
ineffective economic instruments, which are not supporting
and reliable network of public transport services in our cities,
investment in new infrastructure, and communicate the findings to
including integrating fare structures across bus and rail modes
policy makers
Five-year
WATER SUPPLY AND WASTEWATER
D
■ ensure that the necessary policy environment and
12-month
infrastructure is put in place to deliver the prevention and
■ ensure that ireland preserves a public water
recycling targets as set out in the regional waste management
utility as the best way of ensuring that the water
industry is brought to the standards required by a
modern economy
■ ensure that adequate funding is available to allow the utility to
meet its objectives, including eliminating boil notices and reducing
the number of supplies at risk
■ Provide investment in infrastructure capacity to support critical
housing needs and employment growth
plans
■ Prioritise the development of indigenous waste treatment
facilities including anaerobic digestion and biological treatment
capacity, soil recovery capacity, mechanical processing capacity
and additional thermal recovery capacity
■ review the need for contingency landfill capacity as a national
backstop to prevent serious waste-related events that threaten
the health of citizens and our environment
engIneerS Ireland 7
ENERGY
OVERALL GRADE
RECOMMENDATIONS FOR 2016
12-MONTH
C
SECTOR GRADE
Energy efficiency:
D
Electricity (RES-E):
B
Heating/cooling (RES-H):
C
Transport (RES-T):
C
■ develop an implementation plan with clear
targets and milestones, which details actions
around the many ambitions identified in the
energy white Paper
■ Progress the north–south interconnector to
further bolster security of supply and reduce
cost to the consumer, as well as exploring
other interconnection options with a view to
developing them if and when appropriate
■ Publish details regarding the renewable Heat
incentive (rHi) in 2016 as promised,
prioritising large industry to commence
switching to renewable energy, which should
dovetail with smaller industry and domestic
residences
■ Accelerate education programmes for
communities and individuals on the benefits of
energy efficiency and switching to renewable
fuels through retrofitting their homes or
community-driven district heating systems
■ the Government should lead by example, with
ministers encouraged to replace their existing
fossil fuel-powered cars with hybrids or
electric vehicles (evs)
■ irish state agency car, van and bus fleets
should also be progressively converted to
electric, compressed natural gas (cnG) and
hybrid modes, respectively, with the cnG
network rolled out as planned
FIVE-YEAR
■ review and revise energy policy every three to
five years, and inform the process with reports
on progress made, gaps to target and new
technological developments
8 engIneerS Ireland
■ continue to diversify ireland’s electricity fuel
generation mix and expand the renewables base
■ Maintain investment in the transmission and
distribution networks to meet the needs of a
growing economy and the transition from
fossil fuels to renewables
■ explore technology solutions such as energy
storage and further interconnection to
address variable renewable generation
■ encourage renewable energy in ireland and
harness ireland’s already identified naturally
occurring renewable resources
■ carry out a deep retrofit of ireland’s domestic
dwellings and public buildings to reduce
energy demand and increase energy efficiency
■ convert the 900,000 homes that are not
connected to the gas network, and which use
solid fuel or oil for heat, to an appropriate
electric heating solution
■ incentivise the production of biogas from
anaerobic digestion plants to enable 20% of
natural gas be displaced by biogas from the
gas distribution system
■ encourage industrial locations that are off
the natural gas network to implement
biomass solutions for their thermal
(heating/cooling) requirements
■ Accelerate the purchase of evs by irish
consumers through soft incentives such as the
use of bus corridors, revisiting the registration
tax and exploring other financial incentives
■ continue to build out the necessary charging
infrastructure to keep pace with ev adoption
■ ensure that public transport is more
accountable in delivering the res-t and
carbon emission targets
Sustainability – The provision of energy that meets current
The EU Emissions Trading Scheme (EU ETS) is a market-based
demands without compromising the future in terms of energy
approach to controlling pollution by providing economic incentives
for achieving reductions in the emissions of pollutants. The EU
security and long-term damage to the environment.
ETS covers more than 11,000 factories, power stations and other
installations with a heat excess of 20MW in 31 countries, which
Ireland’s economy is dependent on a sustainable energy
were responsible for some 40% of greenhouse gas (GHG)
infrastructure that meets our future needs. the Government’s
emissions in 2008. Non-ETS sectors are domestic, small business
energy white Paper ‘ireland’s transition to a low carbon energy
or small industry, transport, agriculture and waste.
future’ and the recent coP21 agreement, which ireland has
already signed, have moved the three pillars of sustainability,
security of supply and competitiveness centre stage.
reducing energy demand by 20% of the historic average energy used
in this section of the report, we examine the electricity, heating
during the period 2000-2005, as well as reducing carbon emissions
and transport energy sectors.
from sectors that are outside the eu ets (non-ets emissions) by 20%
we assess their current status in light of the eu energy efficiency,
compared to 2005 levels.
renewable energy and carbon emission targets, plus the national
with ireland’s population projected to grow by 10% to 5,247,000 by
and global move towards decarbonisation. in addition, we
2030, there is a real possibility that energy needs will increase in
recommend particular actions to ensure ireland’s continued
parallel with our commitment to reduce carbon emissions based on
journey to a low fossil fuel economy.
national and eu targets.
ireland has a number of targets to achieve as set out in the eu
However, there may be opportunities for ireland too. ireland’s current
renewable energy directive (2009/28/ec), which states that a total
energy policy, laid out in the dcccnr energy white Paper published
of 16% of the country’s total energy consumption must come from
in december 2015, seeks to achieve the optimum benefits at the
renewable energy sources (res) by 2020. in order to achieve the
lowest cost, and to realise economic opportunities where these
16% overall target, the Government set a national renewable energy
opportunities present themselves.
electricity target of 40% (res-e) and a national renewable energy
the sustainable energy Authority of ireland (seAi) has previously
heat target of 12% (res-H), alongside a mandatory eu renewable
reported that there is an estimated market of €300 billion per year for
energy modes of transport target (res-t) of 10% specified in the
sustainable energy technologies and services internationally.
directive. similarly in northern ireland, the department of
ireland has established a positive reputation as a global testing
enterprise, trade and investment (deti) published the strategic
ground for prototype renewable technologies, for example. continued
energy framework (sef) in september 2010, which also sets out a
research and development in, and deployment of green technologies,
40% res electricity target to be reached by 2020. Given the
could assure the country’s place as a leader in this field.
all-island electricity market, it makes obvious sense to work
the seAi energy consumption statistics for 2014 indicate that
together to accomplish a shared objective. An analysis carried out
despite our economy growing by 5.2%, primary energy demand fell
by the department of communications, climate change and natural
in 2013 by 0.5% and energy-related co2 emissions decreased by
resources (dcccnr) indicates that a shortfall in the overall res of
1.2%, indicating that energy efficiency and renewable electricity
between 1% and 4% could result in a one-off cost to the exchequer
policies are having a measurable impact. this is further underlined
of €140m to €600m.
by the decrease in the consumption of all fuels in 2014 with the
simultaneously, ireland must also increase its energy efficiency by
exception of peat, renewables and non-renewable wastes. However,
Target
2020 target
2016 (actual)
Distance to target
Renewable energy source (RES overall)
16%
8.6%
7.4%
RES contribution to electricity (RES-E)
40%
22.7%
17.3%
RES contribution to heat (RES-H)
12%
6.6%
5.4%
RES contribution to transport (RES-T)
10%
5.2%
4.8%
Energy efficiency
20% saving
8-9% saving
11-12% saving
Greenhouse gas emissions
20%
---
Projected to fall
short by 6-11%
Source: DCCCNR, Energy White Paper/SEAI/EPA
engIneerS Ireland 9
both the environmental Protection Agency (ePA) and the seAi have
indicated by its fuel import dependency, which has increased since
indicated in recent reports that ireland is likely to miss out on the
1990 and only decreased slightly in 2014. ireland currently imports
overall 2020 renewable energy target (res overall) of 16% due to lack
90% of its gas and generates almost half of its electricity from gas.
of progress introducing renewable energy into the heat and transport
the corrib gas field is strategically important to ireland from an
sectors, which may result in compliance costs within the eu.
energy security of supply perspective because at peak production,
similarly, the emissions targets will be missed as a result of both of
corrib has the capacity to deliver more than 60% of ireland’s gas
these combined with the impact of the agricultural sector. the good
needs.
news is that similar expert indications would suggest that ireland is
ireland is caught in its own energy trilemma of sustainability,
likely to achieve if not exceed the national renewable electricity target
security of supply and affordability. the publication of the dcccnr
of 40% (res-e), demonstrating that with the right incentives and
energy white Paper has put the focus of energy policy firmly on the
focus, the shift to renewable energy can be possible for all sectors.
sustainability pillar, while ensuring that security and affordability
ireland’s vulnerability in terms of security of supply is further
are maintained.
Ireland’s energy Trilemma
world energy council, energy Trilemma Index – Ireland
Overall World Index:
Ireland is ranked 22 out of 130 countries,
below Malaysia and above Singapore
y
rit
ab
ilit
y
Energy security – C
cu
ly
pp
su
Su
of
sta
in
Indigenous
energy sources
Se
Environmentally
sound
Affordability
Economically viable
10 engIneerS Ireland
Environmental
sustainability
–A
Energy equity
–B
ENERGY EFFICIENCY
energy efficiency target and Ireland’s current position:
National: Target is 20%
Public bodies: Target is 33%
Distance to target 16%
Distance to target 11-12%
8-9% achieved
2005
17% achieved
2020
2016
(Source: SEAI)
2005
2020
2016
Target
Target
As europe moves to implement the Paris climate Agreement,
efficiency is that ireland can reduce its volume of fuel imports and
two-thirds of its low-carbon energy infrastructure investment to
consequently slow down the rate at which domestic fossil fuel
2040 will need to be in energy efficiency. this implies an eightfold
energy resources are depleted. while fossil fuels will eventually be
increase in current levels of investment. the european
phased out, during this transition period towards a zero-carbon
commission’s Heating and cooling strategy has started to set out
future, ireland will have to take a pragmatic approach when it
the links between energy efficiency and the wider energy
comes to leveraging our natural carbon-based resources, such as
infrastructure system. the energy union strategy has called for a
natural gas.
fundamental rethinking of energy efficiency, to treat it as an energy
without a major rethink, we risk the ability to meet our climate and
How would you rate Ireland’s energy
efficiency performance: D
energy targets in 2020 and beyond, if we fail to properly grasp the
ireland’s energy efficiency infrastructure, which can be defined as
nature of the challenge.
capital stock – residences, manufacturing plants, public and
in future, energy efficiency needs to be redefined as a core part of
commercial buildings, our electricity generation fuel mix and our
ireland’s energy infrastructure, and there needs to be more explicit
transport fleet – is currently unable to meet the demands of the
integration. treating energy efficiency as infrastructure and
energy efficiency targets and requires significant investment to reach
integrating it into wider national infrastructure planning means that
an adequate standard. energy efficiencies can be achieved from the
supply side investment needs will fall as projected demand falls,
point of energy generation right through to the final use in a domestic
thus reducing the risk of asset stranding and reducing costs to
dwelling, public building or industrial premises. similarly, electric
society. energy efficiency fulfils the definition of infrastructure used
vehicles (evs) charged using renewable power are more energy
by the international Monetary fund and other economic institutions.
efficient than those powered by traditional fuels.
like traditionally recognised infrastructure, energy efficiency is
reducing the demand for energy by conserving it will quite simply
long-lasting capital stock, provides inputs to a wide range of goods
reduce the amount of energy used, but this requires significant
and services, and frees up capacity elsewhere in the economy.
investment in energy efficiency at the point of use, as well as
the three energy targets of improved efficiency, increased
continued education about energy usage.
renewable fuel sources in final consumption and a reduction in
the residential sector in ireland consists of an estimated 1.7 million
carbon emissions are interlinked and mutually dependent.
homes and in 2014 accounted for the largest share of final thermal
According to the international energy Agency, improved energy
energy usage with 44%, even greater than industry at 35%. in the past
efficiency in buildings, industrial processes and transportation could
seven years, some 300,000 homes (17.5%) have been retrofitted to
reduce the world’s energy needs in 2050 by one-third and help to
become more energy efficient. the seAi suggests that an estimated
control greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. conversely, if ireland fails
€35 billion over 35 years will be required to make the remainder of
to reduce its energy demand, more renewable energy will be
the existing housing stock low carbon by 2050 at an average cost of
required to meet the 2020 targets. An additional benefit of energy
€20,000 per retrofit.
source in its own right, representing the value of energy saved.
engIneerS Ireland 11
industry management is starting to realise that
this is to be commended as it was achieved during
there are increased savings to be made when
what was a difficult time for many public
energy efficiencies are introduced to
bodies, there needs to be an acceleration of
offices and manufacturing processes.
activity in the next four years if the public
Movements like industry 4.0 – the
fourth industrial revolution – can
identify ‘wasted’ energy through
monitoring practices. introducing
energy efficiency methodologies
and upgrading existing systems or
buildings have helped industry to
reduce its costs. the seAi has an
sector is to contribute as planned to the
A culture change
in how we approach
long-term planning
and infrastructure
is undoubtedly
required.
important role to play in continuing to
overall eu obligation.
What actions do we need
to take?
engineers ireland welcomes the
Government’s energy white Paper as
setting a very clear direction for ireland’s
energy policy out to 2030 and beyond to
educate both businesses and consumers
2050. However, the organisation is somewhat
on their responsibilities with regard to
concerned at the lack of a robust
balancing their demand for energy and
implementation plan with clear targets and
adapting energy efficiency measures if ireland’s
milestones, supported by the appropriate enabling
future generations are to benefit from a carbon-free society.
policies and with an effective governance framework. the example of
though transport primary energy use fell by 28% between 2007
having such an implementation framework can be seen through the
and 2013, transport accounts for 34% of primary energy
successful delivery of over 2,000Mw of renewable generation and the
requirement in ireland. with 56% of all transport energy
delivery of the east–west interconnector under the auspices of the
consisting of diesel and just 0.06% of passenger cars being
2007 energy white Paper. we need a similar approach to deliver the
plug-in evs, ireland’s transport sector could not be described as
key projects identified across all energy sectors – electricity,
energy efficient.
heating/cooling and transport – and a step change in our attitude
towards how we think about energy efficiency infrastructure.
What does the future hold?
it is clear that the responsibility for achieving the eu mandatory
ireland is just below halfway (8-9%) to its eu mandatory 2020
targets falls across many Government departments, whereas an
energy efficiency target of 20%, even though Government-
integrated approach is necessary, with leadership at cabinet level. A
supported policy initiatives were introduced to save households’
culture change in how we approach long-term planning and
and businesses’ fuel costs. while policies are in place to
infrastructure is undoubtedly required.
encourage greater energy efficiency, it is clear that accelerated
we can learn from other jurisdictions, such as the uK, which has
action will be necessary to further this progress if ireland is to
established the national infrastructure commission (nic). the
successfully reach its obligations under the eu renewable energy
commission was set up on an interim basis in 2015 and looked at the
directive. the energy white Paper references the active energy
uK’s future needs for nationally significant infrastructure, taking a
citizen and it is imperative that our citizens are engaged in the
long-term approach to the major investment decisions facing the
energy transition ahead and fully support it.
country. the aim of the nic is to enable long-term strategic
while there are serious changes and disruption to come,
decision-making to build effective and efficient infrastructure for the
individuals need to learn about how these new technologies can
uK, and it is to be established by legislation as a non-departmental
enhance their lives and provide them with opportunities for cost
independent body. this type of structure allows it to operate
savings.
independently of Government yet still remaining accountable to the
An education programme designed to engage the active citizen or
treasury for its performance and allocation of public funds.
create more energy citizens needs to be implemented over many
More specifically, if we accept that we need to invest in energy
years as the transition will take generations to take effect in
efficiency infrastructure, a deep retrofit of ireland’s domestic
changing attitudes and behaviours.
dwellings and public buildings should be undertaken to reduce
smart metering also has a role to play in ireland’s successful
energy demand and increase energy efficiency. the deployment of
implementation of energy efficiency strategies, as information
energy efficiency retrofits for domestic, commercial and public
coupled with technology is a key enabler of energy management.
buildings provides an important pathway for increasing energy
the ‘internet of things’ (iot), big data and real-time information
security, decreasing energy demand, reducing GHG emissions, and
all provide opportunities to engage the active energy citizen in
reducing demand for new energy production and distribution
controlling their energy consumption and encouraging them to
facilities.
contribute to ireland’s climate change strategy.
A dedicated long-term resource needs to be allocated to educating
the public sector has an even more ambitious energy efficiency
citizens about their energy responsibilities, including specific
target of 33% to reach by 2020. in the 2015 analysis, a 17%
programmes aimed at the adult generation and a new programme
improvement in energy consumption had been achieved. while
developed for the primary and secondary school curriculums.
ELECTRICITY (RES-E)
reS-e target and Ireland’s current position:
National renewable: Target is 16%
RES-E contribution: Target is 40%
Distance to target 17.3%
8.6% achieved
22.7% achieved
2020
2016
2005
2005
2020
2016
Target
Target
(Source: SEAI)
electricity is vital to virtually every aspect of people’s lives and to
distances. Power then flows into the distribution system, which is
the economy. today’s society is very heavily reliant on ‘smart’
used to bring power to customers’ premises.
tools that manage everything from traffic signals to home
eirGrid is responsible for the operation and development of the
heating. there would be a massive impact on the running of the
transmission system and also oversees the maintenance of the
state and private enterprise if the supply of continuous power is
transmission network. in 2007 an all-island single electricity
interrupted. technology requires power and there is a real need
Market (seM) was established, which has unified the market
to balance this growing demand with decarbonising the network
between ireland and northern ireland. in 2009, eirGrid acquired
and security of supply.
system operator northern ireland (soni), which operates
the infrastructure of wires and cables around the country can be
northern ireland’s national grid, further solidifying the electricity
divided into the distribution network and the transmission
relationship between the two jurisdictions.
network. Generators feed power into both the transmission and
esB networks is the asset owner of both the distribution and
distribution system, with larger units connecting at transmission
transmission networks, and is responsible for the operation,
level and smaller units connecting at distribution level. the
maintenance and development of the electricity distribution
transmission system is used to transport bulk power over long
network in ireland.
Irish electricity supply chain
GENERATION
Large fossil
fuel generation
TRANSMISSION AND
DISTRIBUTION
Transmission
EirGrid
Distribution
ESB Networks
SUPPLY
Domestic
customers
Large and
medium
renewable
and CHP
generators
Business/
commercial
Microgeneration
Competitive market
Regulated monopoly
Competitive market
(Source: ESB)
What is the current status of Ireland’s electricity
generation, transmission and fuel mix: B
Advancements in telecommunications and information technology
while overall electricity in terms of achieving res-e is of an acceptable
meet customers’ new requirements. driven by the move to renewable
standard, properly maintained and able to meet demand, investment
variable generation, the desire for customers to install local
will be required over the next five years to ensure that ireland continues
distributed generation, the requirement for storage and the
have enabled the esB to develop the electricity network to operate to
on its path to likely meet its res-e targets in 2020, with particular
electrification of heat and transport, network management has
emphasis on introducing more renewable fuels into the mix.
changed profoundly in the last number of years. continued investment
Affordability is perhaps the highest priority when it comes to
has ensured that ireland’s electricity network is benchmarked
electricity because of the importance of energy prices for
internationally as among the most advanced in the world.
competitiveness and growth, plus the risk of hardship to low-income
it is fair to say that significant progress has been made on the
households.
decarbonisation of ireland’s fuel mix and ireland is likely to meets its
electricity in ireland is generated from a number of different sources.
2020 res-e target of 40%. this is a result of a consistent policy
the main fuel used to generate electricity is gas. However, through a
approach ensuring investor confidence allied with incentives such as
number of different schemes renewable electricity production is on the
the Accelerated capital Allowance (AcA) tax to encourage companies
increase and now represents almost a quarter of electricity generation,
to invest in energy-efficient equipment, and encourage businesses to
primarily through wind. ireland’s fuel mix means that ireland’s ability to
introduce renewables into their energy consumption. this has led to a
generate electricity is high when it comes to economic cost, security of
demand from customers to have ‘green’ energy in their electricity
supply and environmental impact.
supply or to be assured that the products they consume have come
the security of supply of ireland’s electricity is an imperative across the
from sustainable sources. As a result, businesses are beginning to
energy sector given the severe economic and social consequences that
change their behaviours to incorporate renewable electricity into their
would result from a high-impact, low-probability event such as a total
business models. Apple’s proposed data centre in Athenry is based on
interruption of electrical supply. the challenges for ireland’s electricity
its ability to use 100% renewable energy. similarly, facebook has
O
recently announced that its new data centre in Meath and
generation sector include a high dependence on gas and the increasing
proportion of indigenous variable generation from renewables.
headquarters in dublin will be powered by wind energy. corporate
ireland’s electricity system has been bolstered in recent years, with
thought leaders with the level of influence on the general public that
the east–west interconnector that links to mainland Britain allowing
Apple and facebook have can begin to influence the mindset of the
for the import and export of power, thereby increasing competition
average irish consumer. interestingly, a recent iweA/iPsos MrBi
and facilitating renewables. Both the transmission and distribution
survey revealed that when consumers were asked “whether they would
networks have received significant investment in recent years to
prefer to power their homes with fossil fuels or renewable energy, with
ensure that they are system ready for the increasing number of
both being a similar cost and level of service” that 86% chose
renewables being introduced into the energy mix. eirGrid’s delivering
renewables compared to 9% who opted for fossil fuels. this clearly
a secure sustainable electricity system (ds3) programme is
indicates that there is an appetite for change among energy citizens.
underway to address the challenges of integrating renewable
the Public service obligation (Pso) levy charged to all electricity
generation onto our power system through innovation in technology
customers has also played a huge role in incentivising investment in
application in consultation with market participants.
renewable generation. However, the increasing levels of renewables
fuel mix in Ireland 2014
average fuel mix on a typical day in Ireland
– april 22, 2016
Peat 10%
Waste 0.5%
Oil 0.1%
Net import 8%
Other renewable 0.7%
Renewable hydro 2.7%
Pumping 1%
26 TWh
Wind 19%
■
■
■
■
■
Gas 44%
Consumption 99%
Coal 15%
(Source: EirGrid)
(Source: EirGrid)
Coal
Gas
Net import
Other
Renewables
23.50%
55.08%
0.00%
6.28%
15.14%
Edenderry Power Plant – an industry success story
each year edenderry Power Plant generates enough electricity for
sector than it is to utilise the biomass to displace diesel oil or
the national grid to power the needs of above 150,000 households
natural gas from the heating sector.
across ireland. However, in addition to contributing to renewable
originally designed as a peat-fired power station, edenderry Power
energy and carbon emission reduction targets, the power plant is an
Plant is currently the largest dispatchable renewable electricity
important element in ireland’s energy infrastructure, not only in
source on the island of ireland. it is a source of electricity that can
terms of electricity generation, but also in terms of fuel security and
be dispatched at the instant it is needed. the 118Mw power station
the provision of system services, including reactive power, inertia
utilises a modern fluidised bed boiler, which enables co-firing of
and frequency control, which are crucial to the overall stability and
peat with a wide range of biomass fuels without the need of a major
safe operation of the power system as levels of intermittent
capital investment into the boiler or the fuel handling system.
renewable generation (wind) increase.
co-fuelling of peat with biomass at the power plant commenced in
displacement of carbon-intensive fuels in electricity production,
2008, at a relatively modest rate of 2%, increasing to just under 30%
such as coal and peat, with biomass,* have been shown to lead to
in 2014, with an aim of achieving a 37% co-firing rate in 2016. such a
carbon savings of 1,200-1,450tco2, respectively, for every 1,000t of
high co-fuelling rate will result in carbon savings of over
biomass used, whereas displacement of fuels typical for the heating
350,000tco2.
sector, such as natural gas and kerosene, lead to carbon saving of
* Biomass is organic matter derived from living, or recently living,
600-850tco2, respectively, for every 1,000t of biomass used. from a
organisms. Biomass can be used as a source of energy and it most
carbon emissions savings point of view, it is more effective to utilise
often refers to plants or plant-based materials, which are not used
biomass to displace peat or coal from the electricity-generating
for food or feed, and are specifically called lignocellulosic biomass.
adopt a pragmatic approach to the electricity
in the generation mix, supported by the refit
generation fuel mix and continue to rely to a
scheme, have resulted in a decrease in the
wholesale price of electricity, which partially
offsets the cost of the Pso levy charged to
all electricity customers to fund the
scheme.
res-e has to date been driven by the
introduction of onshore wind energy
deployment and biomass combustion.
waste-to-energy also has a role to play
in achieving the renewable electricity
targets, as approximately 50% of the
electricity produced from waste is
considered to be renewable.
the security of supply
of ireland’s electricity is
an imperative across the
energy sector given the
severe economic and social
consequences that would
result from a high-impact,
low-probability event such
as a total interruption
of electrical supply.
promoting fuel switching from coal and
peat to gas. As ireland moves through
that transition period, low to zero
carbon generation technologies, which
provide electricity that can be
dispatched or stored at the same time
it is generated, may also be required,
along with energy storage for
renewables, increased interconnection
and demand side participation.
the targets for 2030 have yet to be fully
agreed but many projections show that society
despite being in a prime location for ocean
will have to almost completely decarbonise the
energy capture, ireland does not currently have
electricity sector by 2050, with significant progress by
any commercial-scale ocean, wave or tidal power
feeding into the national grid. ireland has, however, established a
certain extent on fossil fuels while actively
2030.
positive reputation as a global testing ground for prototype renewable
the seAi has clearly identified the need to accelerate our progress to
technologies, and in the period beyond 2030 this could become a
meet the 2020 carbon emissions and res-e targets. the deployment
significant source of renewable energy.
of more wind capacity per annum is certainly desirable to help us to
achieve both these goals, alongside employing other clean energy
generation technology. indeed, the eirGrid capacity Generation
while the electricity sector has made considerable advances, ireland
statement 2016 states that there would need to be an average of
needs to continue on the journey from an electricity generation fleet
about 300Mw of extra wind energy capacity installed per year to 2020
primarily based on fossil fuels to one that will essentially be zero
alone.
carbon and should include renewables, biomass and, potentially,
carbon capture and storage. in the longer term, as new and safer
What actions do we need to take?
nuclear technologies are developed, and as the nuclear waste issue is
the decarbonisation of ireland’s electricity is happening gradually and
satisfactorily resolved, this form of energy may need to be considered.
inexorably, but the move away from the predominant use of fossil
in the short to medium-term transition period, ireland will have to
fuels in transport and heating energy will have a major impact on
but less so in rural areas, where increased capacity can be
A smart grid is an electricity network that can cost-efficiently
accommodated without investment. landowner and customer
integrate the behaviour and actions of all users connected to
acceptance of the additional infrastructure which will be required to
it – generators, consumers and those that do both – in order
move to a low-carbon society is also vital and is likely to need
to ensure an economically efficient, sustainable power system
considerable engagement.
with low losses, high levels of quality, security of supply
As indigenous renewables such as wind, solar and wave are variable
and safety.
and changeable, while tidal is variable but predictable, they will
require new demand-side management and technology
electricity generation and distribution in ireland.
capital expenditure will be required to build the
solutions, such as energy storage for both electrical
and thermal power, as renewable generation
infrastructure necessary to supply the
energy to power a larger ev fleet, for
example, whereas a ‘smart grid’ network
is essential to manage ireland’s future
energy fuel mix and consumer
demand. continued investment in
additional network and smart network
strategies is essential to meet
customer needs so that they can
decide how they consume their
electricity. the network also needs
increases. Additional interconnection with
the sustainable
energy Authority of ireland
(seAi) has clearly identified
the need to accelerate
our progress to meet
the 2020 carbon
emissions and
res-e targets.
configuration to allow microgenerators to
sell power to energy companies, and the
impact of the greater electrification of heat and
transport may lead to capacity issues in urban areas,
other countries may also be required to
facilitate renewables, to augment and
diversify competition and security of
supply. the potential for increased
renewable generation in ireland
should be explored further, including
the use of different technologies as
they become increasingly available
and cost competitive.
with our island status, ireland’s energy
future is inextricably linked with northern
ireland, and the north–south interconnector
is imperative to further bolster security of supply
and reduce the cost to the consumer.
HEATING/COOLING (THERMAL) RES-H
reS-h target and Ireland’s current position:
RES-H contribution: Target is 12%
8.6% achieved
2005
6.6% achieved
2016
(Source: SEAI)
2020
Target
2005
2016
2020
Target
res-H refers to thermal energy that is used for space, process and water
usage of our renewable generation resources and electricity network
heating, cooling and also for cooking. the residential sector in ireland
assets.
accounts for the largest share of thermal energy usage at 44%, followed
district heating is a goal of the new energy white Paper and is a proven
by industry at 35%, services at 16% and agriculture at 4%.
method of increasing energy efficiency. while it has been successfully
implemented in many other european countries, it has not been deployed
What is the current status of Ireland’s heating/cooling
systems: C
the vast majority of heating systems in ireland are domestic and powered
by fossil fuels (gas, oil and solid fuels) compared to other economies that
have developed renewable heating system technologies such as
wood-burning boilers, air-source and geothermal ground-heat pumps or
solar water heaters. ireland also has the added challenge of eradicating
peat harvesting in rural areas, which is often viewed as a ‘free’ resource.
renewable energy accounted for 6.6% of thermal demand in 2014 and is
growing steadily, but not quickly enough to achieve the 2020 targets. oil is
the dominant fuel, accounting for 41% of fuel inputs in 2014. with oil
prices at an all-time low, this option of carbon-intensive, affordable
heating/cooling is attractive. Persuading citizens and businesses alike to
invest in capital improvements to replace their oil-burning infrastructure
with new, energy-efficient, renewable fuel thermal alternatives will
require large-scale financial incentives and education programmes from
Government and its agencies.
to any significant extent in ireland. one of the key advantages of district
heating networks are the efficient use of surplus heat from ‘low grade’
combined heat and power (cHP) plants, waste incineration plants, waste
heat from industrial processes, natural geothermal heat sources, and
fuels that are more easily used centrally, including renewables like wood
waste and residues. the development of district heating networks could
help to meet ireland’s renewable heat (res-H) target, help to reduce
ireland’s GHG emissions and external energy dependency.
significant savings can be achieved with the right applications, such as
high heat densities in towns and cities using biomass fuel. there are
opportunities for cHP systems that can, with proper thermal storage,
become part of the smarter electricity grid. However, heat distribution
networks are expensive to install and further assessment of the
economics is required. the business case tends to rely on guaranteed
uptake of end users before a project is underway, and such guarantees are
hard to secure. ireland should look at countries with similar climates, such
as denmark, to assess the potential for knowledge transfer in this area.
ireland’s dispersed rural population means that it is always going to be
electrification of heat, particularly using heat pumps, is an often stated
more difficult and expensive to install district heating systems that
goal across europe. Heat pumps and thermal storage, coupled with smart
operate effectively and efficiently in rural areas.
grid and distributed generation, could have a very positive impact on
According to the institute of international and european Affairs (iieA), an
reducing energy demand. However, peak heat demand in winter can be
estimated figure of €14 billion is required to bring the residential housing
five to six times greater than peak electricity demand. rapid transition to
stock up to an average Building energy rating (Ber) of c1, and for
even high-performing heat pumps without management and control of
Government targets to be met. specific technical measures include
energy infrastructure and household demand could stress parts of the
building insulation retrofits of wall, roof and floor insulation,
existing network. further capital investment in the network and
energy-efficient glazing and draught proofing alongside heating/cooling
transmission systems will be required, and therefore impacts on the
system replacements with heating controls, heat pumps or solar water
long-term affordability of these solutions. conversely, if this transition is
heating, energy-efficient lighting, and more efficient household
managed appropriately, it could result in more efficient and cost-effective
appliances and electronics. the technical improvements towards
energy flow – Thermal uses 2014
% OF ENERGY FLOW
% OF FINAL ENERGY USE
6.5%
44%
Residential
Oil 41.5%
35%
Industry
16%
Services
4%
Agriculture
1%
Lost in refining
Renewables
Natural gas
38%
Coal
8%
Peat
5%
Wastes
1%
(Source: SEAI)
more energy-efficient and low-carbon renewable fuels need to be
medium-term res-H targets. one recommendation is to electrify the
coupled with behavioural measures that include reducing the target
900,000 homes that are not connected to the gas network, and which
temperature by one degree celsius, such as turning off heating in
use solid fuel or oil for heat. Priority should be given to electrifying
unused rooms, turning off lights when not in use, installing a
the heating systems in these homes through a funded Government
low-flow shower head and air-drying rather than tumble-drying
programme. not only would this immediately contribute to the
clothes. small, targeted behavioural changes can all contribute to
heating target, but it would also benefit the 20% carbon emissions
increased energy efficiency and improved comfort levels for
obligation if renewables are used in the electricity generation.
householders as a deep retrofit will naturally lead to reduced energy
However, this has to be done in conjunction with changes to how
consumption. we have seen recent tv ads encouraging householders
electric domestic emissions are treated in the Building regulations to
to switch off and save.
facilitate adoption of all available electric heating solutions. while
However, uptake of energy efficiency in the residential sector is likely
noting that there have been very positive developments regarding the
to be low without additional intervention. the seAi has identified a
treatment of heat pumps in recent months, the Building regulations
number of potential and existing interventions including regulation,
continue to be a barrier to the adoption of electric storage heating for
pay as you save (PAys), information campaigns and direct financial
apartment dwellings.
support. PAys is a type of residential retrofit financing scheme
of the remaining 700,000 homes that are connected to the gas
currently under consideration in ireland. A number of research
network, 100% of these homes could be switched from natural gas to
papers were produced examining the PAys concept, which formed a
biogas with no need to change the gas distribution infrastructure.
starting point for the Better energy financing (Bef) project. Bef is
However, biogas is produced from anaerobic digestion and currently
intended to overcome the financial barrier in the residential sector by
there are only six plants in ireland, compared to 26 in northern
providing accessible finance to householders in ireland. there is
ireland. some of the reasons for the low level of plants in ireland
currently an €800,000 capital budget set aside for a suite of project
include a complex planning and licensing system, with eight different
trials in 2016. essentially, the task of Bef is to identify the level of
permissions required, grid connection costs, unattractive electricity
cost at which energy efficiency becomes acceptable to a critical mass
tariffs, financing issues and uncertainty in waste policy. this is an
of the population, and then identify the nature, and extent, of the
area that has the potential to grow, with the help of policy
subsidy required to make that level of cost available.
development and financial incentives to support the industry. it is
estimated that just replacing 20% of natural gas with biogas could
allow 100% of domestic customers and up to 15% of industrial and
radical changes are needed to the vast majority of ireland’s thermal
commercial customers to operate on biogas, contributing to the
technology, which must include switching households to a fuel source
res-H target.
that requires a total retrofit of their heating system. the role of Bef is
As well as supporting ireland’s achievement of its renewable targets,
critical to the success of this switch to ensure that the final solution is
development of anaerobic digestion plants assists with the
affordable for the householder when it is combined with energy
implementation of ireland’s waste policy.
efficiency measures.
Power-to-gas is another option to replace 20% of natural gas
A blend of gas and electricity is needed to meet the short to
whereby surplus renewable electricity is converted into hydrogen gas
Astellas – an industry success story
Astellas ireland ltd operates a modern pharmaceutical finishing
forest resources in Kerry, supporting local jobs and helping to
facility in Killorglin, co. Kerry, where it employs 350 people. the
develop a wood supply market. other renewable projects saw the
facility serves the worldwide market as the production base for the
erection of an on-site wind turbine for electricity supply in 2012,
formulation and packaging of anti-rejection drugs used in organ
and the installation of a solar water heating system in 2014.
transplant surgery.
in december 2015, Astellas was generating 62% of all energy
Astellas has a longstanding commitment to the energy agenda.
required for the site through renewable energy.
Joining the seAi’s energy Agreements programme in 2005, the site
the on-site wind turbine generates 20% of the company’s
has been certified to a variety of standards since 2007, with the
electricity and the wood chip boiler supplies 95% of the company’s
most recent one being the international standard for energy
thermal needs. the installation of a biomass heating system has
Management – iso 50001. Astellas places a high value on
helped Astellas to secure major contracts from international
sustainability and corporate social responsibility and as a result in
clients that prioritise world-class environmental credentials in the
2010, the company began to examine alternatives to oil as the main
companies they partner with.
source of energy for the plant.
Astellas used to burn 700,000 litres of oil annually for thermal
Planning permission was approved for the installation of a new
energy. By switching to a more energy-efficient thermal system, it
352m2 utilities building comprising a 1.6Mw biomass boiler and
reduced co2 emissions by 92%, reduced overall manufacturing
ancillary biomass fuel store, which came on stream in 2012.
costs, secured the company’s sustainability and increased its
Astellas sources its wood chip from predominantly local coillte
competitiveness.
by rapid response electrolysis and is subsequently injected into the
incentivise businesses to recycle as much waste as possible.
gas distribution network. ireland already owns a vast energy storage
As ireland cannot meet its decarbonisation ambitions without
tackling heating in the residential sector, a domestic rHi
infrastructure in the form of its existing gas
is a necessary part of the strategy to incentivise
transmission and distribution pipeline. it is likely
homeowners to undertake energy retrofit
that the shift to renewable heating will have to
projects.
be incentivised in order to change consumer
behaviour on both the generation and
demand side. A firm policy is needed to
drive these changes such as
feed-in-tariffs (fits) similar to how the
Pso/refit scheme has driven the
introduction of renewables in
electricity generation. the renewable
Heat incentive (rHi) has been shown to
drive rapid deployment of new
technologies, for example, solar and
biomass heat in the uK and fits-developed
the task of Bef is to identify for industrial locations that are off the
natural gas network, the implementation
the level of cost at which
of biomass solutions, like those used by
energy efficiency becomes
Astellas in Killorglin, would assist with
acceptable to a critical mass
increasing energy efficiency, achieving
the renewables target and reducing
of the population, and then
carbon emissions.
identify the nature, and extent,
the Government should provide
of the subsidy required
leadership on this and prioritise
to make that level of
sweeping changes in the public sector to
cost available.
support a consumer education programme,
leading by example. ireland’s hospitals, which
solar photovoltaic (Pv) electricity in Germany
are among the most intensive energy users, account
and spain. However, lessons need to be learned
for around 500,000 tonnes of carbon emissions annually,
about how incentives can skew the market and provide
unsustainable market growth. it is important to set levels at
and in 2014 were responsible for 21% of total energy consumption in
moderate rates of return, with the guaranteed tariff reducing each
the public sector. the 2020 target for hospitals is just less than half
year. details around the rHi need to be put in place by the irish
this at 11.8%, which means significant inroads will have to be made to
Government as promised by 2016 for producers and consumers of
achieve this in the next four years.
renewable heat.
Mandatory energy audits have been an essential driver in making
the energy white Paper states that the proposed rHi should
energy efficiency visible within the industrial sector. once energy
incentivise the change to renewable heating for the equivalent of an
becomes a visible cost to production, companies are prompted to
additional 200 large industrial sites or 2,000 large services sector
develop methodologies to reduce unnecessary or wasted energy by
buildings or 300,000 residential dwellings between now and 2020 or
optimising their processes.
some combination of the three. As industry emits more co2 and is
the requirements to undertake energy audits should be widened to
more likely to realise the business benefits that can be made through
incorporate small to medium-sized businesses as well as retail
energy efficiency as well as switching to alternative fuels, then the
centres, similar to those introduced in the public sector and for large
focus should primarily be on business to lead the change.
commercial enterprises under the eu energy efficiency regulations
waste-to-energy would benefit from inclusion in the rHi to
2014.
TRANSPORT (RES-T)
reS-T target and Ireland’s current position:
RES-T contribution: Target is 10%
8.6% achieved
2005
5.2% achieved
2016
(Source: SEAI)
2020
Target
2005
2016
2020
Target
ireland’s obligation under the eu renewable energy directive is to replace
owners charge their cars at home overnight, thereby contributing to the
transport fuel with 10% renewable energy by 2020. transport energy
electricity demand profile, leading to more efficient use of the generation
demand, which is responsible for a third of total energy use in ireland,
assets. despite a €5,000 subsidy, low road tax rates and a vehicle
grew by 4% in 2014. over half of all transport energy consists of diesel
registration tax (vrt) exemption, there are only 1,700 evs registered in
(56%) and currently biofuels account for only 3.1% of the fuel mix in
ireland. this is 0.9% of the total car fleet. in norway, with a similar
transport (or 5.2% when the weightings for double certificates are applied
population to ireland but a sparser population spread per square
in accordance with the directive).
kilometre – 14 versus ireland’s 67 – the passenger car market share for
What is the current status of Ireland’s transport
energy infrastructure: C
which emits 22% less co2 than diesel, is an alternative fuel for ireland’s
truck and inter-city bus fleet but the only refuelling point that currently
road-based transport equates to 80.6% of all journeys, with private cars
exists is at Gas networks ireland’s cork office where it has conducted
making up the majority of that figure at 55.8%. there are about two million
trials with Bus Éireann.
private cars in ireland and it is the preferred mode of transport for the
dublin Bus applied for funding from the national transport Authority in
majority of irish people as 75% of all journeys are taken by car. this ratio
2014 to trial three hybrid fuel buses over a three-year period but the
increases outside of dublin to 77% and drops in the city to 61%, with
request was declined because no funds were available from the
public transport and other sustainable modes used more in the capital.
department of transport. Hybrids are considered ideal for stop-start
res-t reached 5.2% in 2014 and this was mostly through the use of
driving conditions in cities and, as well as fuel efficiencies through the use
biofuels mixed with diesel and petrol. the ev charge point network
of renewable energy, they can contribute to the overall reduction of co2
currently meets demand, with evidence to suggest that the majority of ev
and noise in urban centres.
plug-in electric passenger cars is 22%. compressed natural gas (cnG),
Double certification
8%
A fundamental aspect of the Biofuels obligation scheme (Bos) is
that it is a certificate-based system in which a single Bos certificate
represents one litre of biofuels. for sustainable biofuels produced
from first-generation feed stocks, for example vegetable oil, sugar
or starch, one certificate is awarded for each litre placed on the
market. two Bos certificates per litre may be awarded for advanced
biofuels, which are typically produced from wastes and residues.
the obligated parties have relied on double certification to meet
their biofuels obligations in previous years: in 2014, over 60% of the
biofuels placed on the market received two Bos certificates per litre.
the implication of counting advanced biofuels twice is that the
volume of biofuels placed on the market is reduced (see graph).
7%
6%
5%
4%
3%
2%
1%
0%
2010
2011
% Bio (by volume)
Source: Byrne O’Cleirigh
2012
2013
% Bio (by certificate)
2014
2015
Obligation
The rise of electric cars
By 2022 electric vehicles (evs) will cost the same as their internal combustion counterparts. that’s the point of lift-off for sales.
Electric vehicles would
account for 35% of all
new vehicle sales.
500 million vehicles
400
300
200
100
0
2015 ‘16
‘17
‘18
‘19
‘20
‘21
‘22
‘23
‘24
‘25
‘26
‘27
Sources: Data compiled by Bloomberg New Energy Finance, Marklines
‘28
‘29
‘30
‘31
‘32
‘33
‘34
‘35
‘36
■ Projected annual sales
‘37
‘38
‘39
‘40
■ cumulative sales
or produced from indigenous resources. However, it is clear that in the
the use of biofuels mixed with petrol and diesel will continue to play a
short to medium term, ireland will continue to rely on imported petroleum
major part in reducing co2 emissions in the future. the current mix is 6%
for much of our transport. the infrastructural capability to produce refined
under the Biofuels obligation scheme (Bos) and is expected to increase to
petroleum products on the island of ireland is of key importance in the
8% on January 1, 2017. However, the maximum realistic mix for petrol and
context of the security of supply element of the trilemma as we transition
diesel in ireland is unlikely to be above 10% and so the potential impact of
towards a carbon-free society over the coming years. not having refinery
this solution is limited in the longer term. evs have the potential to make a
capability will effectively mean that in an oil supply crisis, ireland would be
real impact over time, although uptake is slow and the Government’s
reduced to sourcing our transport requirements in the refined product
white Paper has revised the target for evs down from 10% of the total
market and not the wider crude oil market. it is in this context that it is
fleet (approximately 194,400 cars) by 2020 to just 50,000 or 2.5%.
recommended that the infrastructural capability to produce refined
the question of fees for evs to access public charging infrastructure is
petroleum products to serve these needs be retained.
currently under review by the commission for energy regulation (cer).
fees could well prove a deterrent for those who already own this mode of
transport to remain with this type of vehicle and for new entrants to
if the resolution of this target rests on achieving significant purchases of
choose this as a future option despite grants on offer. the seAi’s research
evs by irish citizens, then awareness, advocacy and influencing opinions
into behaviour will prove significant in identifying the barriers to
should be the primary focus for Government in the next four years. this
consumers availing of clean electric technology for their transport needs.
should also include soft incentives such as the use of bus corridors for
A recent report by Bloomberg new energy finance looked at the
evs, revisiting the registration tax and exploring other financial incentives.
technology and concluded that as battery prices fell by 35% in 2015, they
the affordability of the solution is also a factor, and with prices of evs set
are on a trajectory to make unsubsidised evs as affordable as their fossil
to fall to more competitive levels in the future, evs should form a bigger
fuel counterparts in the next six years. Bloomberg predicts that by 2040,
part of the fuel mix in transport.
35% of new cars worldwide will have a plug. the cnG network of fuel
currently the choice of evs is limited in the consumer’s mind, though the
refilling points is set to roll out in 2016, and will build on the existing gas
range has become more extensive in recent years. the majority of vehicles
transmission and distribution systems, which bodes well for affordability.
available are small in size, lower in horsepower and limited in range, with
However, from a security perspective, as the network is yet to be built out
the ability to travel an average of 150km before needing a charge.
there are no immediate gains to be made from this more environmentally
However, the technology is moving on, with new models offering real
friendly fuel mix. there are currently no plans to electrify the intercity rail
choice in the mid-price saloon marketplace. these models can offer an
network and as rail energy equates to just 0.9% of the primary energy
improved driving performance and a driving range closer to 320km. tesla
consumption for transport, bigger wins would be generated from focusing
and other manufacturers are also offering choice in the luxury
on the private car network.
marketplace and these may help to change the perception of evs in the
this report strongly advocates the accelerated move to renewable energy
eyes of consumers. leadership by Government and the public sector is
modes of transport, particularly where the renewable energy is generated
necessary to change the attitude of the irish public to evs. As the majority
Stockholm and electric hybrid buses – an industry success story
A bus route that is entirely served by volvo’s quiet, fuel-efficient and
that is powered by biodiesel. compared with conventional buses, the
practically emission-free electric hybrid buses is now a reality in
electric hybrids provide considerable environmental gains. the total
stockholm. A total of eight electric hybrid buses deployed on route 73
energy consumption is 60% lower. climate-impacting emissions are
pass through the central areas of the swedish capital.
reduced by 90%, since the buses use biodiesel and wind power. the
volvo’s electric hybrid buses replaced all of the existing fleet on route
noise level during electrical operation is at the same level as ordinary
73, which runs between ropsten and the Karolinska institute in
conversational tone.
central stockholm. the driver for the city to introduce electrified bus
services using electric hybrid buses in stockholm comprise a
traffic was because it is a cost-efficient way of reducing the problems
demonstration project conducted by volvo Buses, sl (stockholm
of poor air quality and noise. the buses assist with improving the
Public transport) and energy provider vattenfall. it is part-financed by
environment without the need for large investments in new
the eu through the Zeeus (Zero emission urban Bus system) project,
infrastructure. volvo’s electric hybrid buses operate quietly and free of
in which more than 40 companies and organisations are participating.
emissions on renewable electricity for seven of the route’s slightly
following the initial demonstration project, which will continue until
more than eight kilometre total distance, and the batteries are
the end of 2016, the intention is to continue using the electric hybrids
quick-charged for only six minutes at the terminus at each end of the
in commercial operation. volvo’s electric hybrids have also been used
route. As a complement, the buses also have a small diesel engine
in commercial service in Hamburg, Germany, since december 2014.
of the ministerial fleet is privately owned by individual ministers, they
vehicles. Measures such as the Green Bus fund included in the dcccnr
should be encouraged to replace their existing fossil fuel-powered cars
energy white Paper should also be extended to freight transport to create
with hybrids or evs. irish state agency car, van and bus fleets should also
a Green freight transport fund. the continued roll-out of cost-effective
be updated accordingly to electric, cnG and hybrid modes, respectively,
public transport should also be prioritised on urban and inter-city routes,
while public procurement processes for Government contracts involving
providing an alternative to the large number of journeys by
transport should include key performance indicators linked to renewable
single-occupancy private car.
energy. there is clearly a need for public transport to be more accountable
in the delivery of the res-t targets.
Carbon emissions
A comprehensive national strategy needs to be put in place to create the
from 1990 to 2014, energy-related co2 emissions increased by 17% – an
necessary infrastructure for ev adoption to thrive in the short term. this
average of 0.7% per annum. transport recorded the largest increase at
would involve further incentives to encourage consumers to switch from
120% (3.3% per annum) over the period. transport’s share of
fossil fuels to evs in parallel with an education campaign to advise the
energy-related co2 emissions was 37% in 2014. the residential sector in
active citizen on how his or her choice of fuel impacts on the global
ireland consists of an estimated 1.7 million homes and, after agriculture
environment, climate change and flooding.
and transport, is the third largest emitter of energy-related GHG
incentives could include the obligatory reservation of charging spaces for
emissions.
evs by local authorities, reduced parking fees, preferential access to
As previously stated, the three energy targets of improved efficiency,
restricted areas, reduced tolls and the provision of charging facilities in
increased renewable fuel sources in final consumption and a reduction in
new buildings. similar measures have been proven to grow ev numbers
carbon emissions are interlinked and mutually dependent. with the
rapidly in other countries. the cnG network should be rolled out as
introduction of more renewables, then GHG emissions will fall. However,
planned to enable the van and bus fleets to switch from diesel to a fuel
this report has quite clearly identified that not enough measures are on
that emits less GHGs. Government tenders should specify the types of fuel
track to increase renewables in the fuel mix for heat (res-H) and
that private service operators must use in their fuel mix and grants should
transport (res-t). similarly, a lack of buy-in to the energy efficiency target
be offered to encourage the private sector to invest in cnG-powered
means that ireland is a long way from achieving the 20% obligation.
OTHER CONSIDERATIONS
Main research areas of focus to 2050.
A. Active consumers at the centre of the energy system
A.1 social and behavioural aspects of the energy transition, including: i) energy
efficiency; ii) transport; iii) social acceptance of energy infrastructure; and, iv)
approaches to societal engagement.
B. demand focus
B.1 energy efficiency
c. system optimisation
c.1 electricity
c.2 Gas/water
c.3 smart cities/communities
c.4 integrated energy systems modelling
d. secure, cost-effective, clean and competitive supply
d.1 wind/solar energy
d.2 Bioenergy
d.3 ocean energy
d.4 sustainable transport systems
d.5 sustainable heating/cooling
Energy technologies
for ireland, there is no single silver bullet. the adoption of different
capability, built up over many years and across a range of
technologies will depend on the maturity and relative cost of the
institutions. Particular progress has been made over the past
technology, bearing the affordability question in mind. this report
decade, due in part to good policy decisions such as the initiation of
has endeavoured to recommend actions that are achievable with
the charles Parsons Awards and the strategy report of the irish
current technologies and resources available to ireland today.
energy research council. the energy research mandate given to
However, ireland needs to stop closing the door on technologies that
science foundation ireland (sfi), including the current proposed
may have to be considered in the future and remain open to those
large biomass research centre, plus the establishment and funding
that have yet to be developed.
of the international energy research centre in cork, the energy
the recently published energy white Paper sets a very clear
research institute in ucd and the Marine and renewable energy
direction for energy policy, in line with ireland's commitments under
ireland (Marei) centre, is critical to developing further technologies
the Paris Agreement: "our vision of a low-carbon energy system
in the renewable space. the work of the seAi and other state
means that greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from the energy sector
agencies, and the proactive response of industry and academia to
will be reduced by between 80% and 95% compared to 1990 levels,
these policy decisions, is also a major contributor.
by 2050, and will fall to zero or below by 2100”.
the role of energy research in facilitating ireland's transition to a
in order to achieve this, a major transition is required in how we
low-carbon future is highlighted in the energy white Paper. the
meet our energy needs in a sustainable, secure and affordable way
Paper refers to the forthcoming publication of the report of the
across the transport, heating and electricity sectors. in fact, this
energy research strategy Group (ersG), which will include a
transition is already underway. it is widely recognised that new
roadmap comprising areas of focus to 2050, while also identifying
technologies, and the further development of existing technologies,
the key elements of a world-class energy system capable of
will be required in order to effect this transition, and to this end
addressing the challenges of energy security, sustainability and
governments, institutions and enterprises across the world are
competitiveness.
committing significant resources to energy research and innovation.
Added to those research areas of focus listed in the white Paper are
for example, the eu strategic energy technology (set) Plan seeks to
two additional areas where ireland should adopt a 'watching brief'.
accelerate knowledge development, technology transfer and
these are carbon capture and storage (ccs), and developments in
deployment of low-carbon energy technologies and systems in order
nuclear energy.
to achieve the eu's 2030 energy and climate change goals and to
in relation to ccs, this technology has the potential to substantially
enable the transition to a low-carbon economy by 2050. the eu set
reduce carbon emissions, and it features strongly in low-carbon
Plan is underpinned by the eu's Horizon 2020 €70 billion funding
scenarios developed by the ieA and other bodies. However,
programme for research and development, of which €6 billion is
depending on the energy required to convert the co2 gas into a
earmarked for non-nuclear energy research.
storable and transportable form, it could be expensive and its
ireland has developed a diverse and vibrant energy research
utilisation may reduce significantly the overall process efficiency of
in relation to
nuclear energy, the eu
energy roadmap shows
that this will remain
an important part of the
eu power generation
mix in the years to come.
the power plant or industrial application to which it is applied. A
‘Soft infrastructure’
prerequisite for the large-scale deployment of ccs is, therefore, the
ireland’s ambitions to reach the renewable energy targets need
demonstration of the technical and economic feasibility of existing
support from the legislature. High investment costs are incurred by
technologies, together with a comprehensive research programme
developers in preparing planning applications for major
to reduce costs, increase efficiencies across the whole ccs
infrastructure with very little certainty of the planning outcome.
technology chain, and to optimise the technology for use in all
currently, the application fee for a strategic infrastructure
carbon-intensive industrial sectors.
development (sid) is €100,000 and there are other additional costs,
in relation to nuclear energy, the eu energy roadmap shows that
such as preparing environmental impact statements. there needs to
this will remain an important part of the eu power generation mix in
be a more unified and integrated approach to the regulations, as well
the years to come. research and development in this area
as more clarification. for example, in the case of an upstream
internationally is focusing on the development of new fission reactor
pipeline coming ashore, we have the foreshore Act, the strategic
technologies, on enhancing safety across the full nuclear power
infrastructure Act, section 40 of the Gas Act 1976, that is consent to
value chain, and in the development of new and smaller modular
construct and consent to operate, and a safety Permit under the
reactor concepts. A particular ongoing focus is the development of
Petroleum (exploration and extraction) safety (Pees) Acts 2010
sustainable solutions for the management of nuclear waste. in the
and 2015. these consents are determined by different Government
longer term, fusion technology is seen as a potentially attractive
departments or agencies. one Government agency should take
energy solution for clean and large-scale electricity generation
the lead.
towards the end of the century. ireland is one of a number of
delays to projects, including sid projects, mean that the legislation
countries that does not have nuclear power in its domestic electricity
is falling short of its ambition. when it comes to planning appeals
mix. At some point in the future, as the transition to a low-carbon
and the strategic infrastructure Act, timelines are aspirational.
future gathers momentum, and as these new technologies develop a
there should be fixed deadlines. there are no timelines for other
record of successful, commercial and safe operation, it is
consents. obtaining a foreshore licence is a very time-consuming
conceivable that nuclear power could become an attractive option for
process.
ireland.
eu regulation 347 of 2013 introduced a consenting regime for
the white Paper also highlights the enterprise opportunities that flow
trans-european energy networks (ten-e) projects, which are
from a vibrant energy research and innovation ecosystem. ireland is
designated as ‘projects of common interest’. the overall duration
developing a reputation as a world-class location for research across
must be no more than 42 months, with the consent stage taking no
a number of sectors, including life sciences and information and
more than 18 months. where multiple consents are required, the
communications technology, with many global companies actively
regulation requires each member state to nominate an agency to
engaged in research activities in ireland. the energy research sector
co-ordinate the consents. for projects in ireland, which are not
has the potential to achieve similar success – this is recognised in the
‘projects of common interest’ and which require multiple consents, a
ambition to establish ireland as an 'energy innovation Hub'.
co-ordinating agency should be appointed.
COMMUNICATIONS
Ireland’s communications network is responsible for saving lives, supporting business as well as providing
citizens with access to entertainment and social media. Our voice and data networks are critical to our
smarter living modes.
OVERALL GRADE
12-MONTH
B
n Award the National Broadband Plan (NBP)
intervention to a contractor(s) and confirm
the deployment schedule nationally
n Continue the roll-out of the 4G mobile
networks nationally and protect the
quality of traditional mobile services such
as voice
n continue to reduce service costs when
rates and speeds are not equal in
rural/urban areas
What is the current state of infrastructure?
FIVE-YEAR
n Roll-out of affordable high-speed
broadband services nationally
n Ireland’s national broadband
infrastructure should be in the top five
of European league tables in terms of
availability, uptake and speed
n Continue to research and develop the
network in anticipation of 5G services
contractor(s) for the deployment of this infrastructure, with construction
A recent report by the european commission (digital economy and
expected to start in 2017. this initiative is likely to have a major impact on
society index) ranks ireland 8th in the eu for a range of digital integration
the market as a whole.
issues. However, this rate of growth in the last year is behind the average
growth across the eu, placing ireland in a cluster of countries deemed to
Mobile infrastructure
be ‘lagging ahead’. in the mobile category ireland is ranked 7th of the eu
the infrastructure supporting mobile services has been upgraded, driven
28 at 67.7%, ahead of the eu average of 62.4%. ireland has significantly
by the roll-out of 4G networks by all mobile operators to serve data users
improved its performance in the connectivity dimension in the last year,
and the need to reduce the operating costs of the networks through site
jumping from 16th to 13th place.
consolidation and the sharing of towers and masts.
there has been convergence of technologies during the last five years –
cable tv providers now provide broadband and traditional telecoms
companies now deliver tv content. Quad play bundles (voice, mobile voice,
since 2010, worldwide internet data demand has grown by over 40% year
data and video) are now commonplace in the market and the focus has
on year. the telecommunications infrastructure is challenged, with
shifted to content now that the required broadband speeds are more
ever-increasing demands on the networks by consumers who demand
prevalent.
that both business and lifestyle requirements are met. services are now
expected to be always available irrespective of location.
Broadband
the future includes the adaptation of the network for 5G services, with
€2bn plus has been invested in the network infrastructure by industry
research already underway to facilitate these requirements.
over the past four years. industry anticipates that 1.6m homes will have
access to high-speed broadband provided by commercial operators in the
near future: approximately 70% of all premises in ireland. international
the continued investment by commercial operators is fundamental to
connectivity has improved, with the landing of transatlantic cables to both
increasing ireland’s competitiveness in the years ahead.
cork and Mayo in 2015, which lessen the dependency on dublin-based
the implementation of the nBP intervention is a cornerstone to ensuring
connectivity. Achievements include advances in fibre-to-the-home
that rural ireland gets access to high-speed broadband and enabling
connectivity, which barely existed in ireland five years ago. ireland had the
digital services in all homes throughout ireland.
seventh fastest broadband speed in the world in 2014, ahead of the uK and
Mobile networks need to ensure that high-quality services are made
Germany, but dropped to 12th in europe in 2015 and 23rd in the world.
available for traditional services, as well as enhancing the services
available for mobile broadband users. Additional spectrum is likely to be
Broadband in rural Ireland
made available in the near term and this needs to be harnessed wisely to
the remaining 30% of premises not served by broadband represent the
improve the performance and capacity of the networks. in addition, the
target for state intervention. the national Broadband Plan (nBP)
continued roll-out of the 4G networks is an essential enhancement to the
procurement process was initiated in december 2015, to select the
communications infrastructure nationally.
TRANSPORT
Developing a transport infrastructure that meets the requirements of Irish society and the Irish economy
is essential to the future prosperity of the State. Critical to this is an integrated approach to road, rail, air
and sea transport.
OVERALL GRADE
12-MONTH
C
SECTOR GRADE
Roads: Motorways
B
Roads: Other routes
D
Sustainable transport
D
Rail
C
Airports
B
Sea ports
C
n Progress funding mechanisms for delayed
national road projects countrywide
n Improve road management systems in
conjunction with increased road
maintenance funds
n Progress development of second runway
at Dublin Airport
n Develop solution for North Dublin and
Dublin Airport rail
n Continue to invest in improved facilities for
pedestrians and cyclists, in particular in
the major cities
FIVE-YEAR
n Accelerate the prioritisation of investment
in infrastructure projects to increase
Ireland’s competitiveness and address the
unemployment challenge
n Progress the planning process for port
redevelopments in Cork and Galway
n Agree standards for data formats and
communication protocols for integrated
traffic systems to enable information
sharing
n Continue to work towards the development
of an integrated, frequent and reliable
network of public transport services in our
cities, including integrating fare
structures across bus and rail modes
Roads
routes. the announcement of the dArt extension to Balbriggan,
limited investment during the economic downturn has left national
Hazelhatch and Maynooth, along with Metro north, is welcomed. A light
roads badly in need of investment. the motorway network is currently
rail network in cork should be examined. the extension of the luAs
able to cope with levels of traffic, but the M50 has started to suffer
lines is welcome. However, a longer term plan for future tram lines is
congestion due to increased traffic volumes.
needed instead of the current ‘stop-start’ approach.
Beyond the motorways, ireland’s remaining road network is in very
variable condition and is not capable of meeting usual demand,
Airports
certainly not to an international level. Austere budgetary measures have
ireland’s international air connectivity is critical for tourism and
seen the road maintenance programmes significantly reduced to
business travel. irish airports are well maintained and the authorities
unsustainable levels. reduced budgets mean that national and local
continue to invest to maintain the safety and security of the
authorities have insufficient resources to maintain their road networks
infrastructure.
in acceptable condition.
the announcement of the construction of a new runway at dublin
Airport, on hold since 2007, is an indication of ireland’s growing
Public, integrated and sustainable transport
economic confidence. existing regional airports should be maintained
A holistic approach is required when it comes to transport and energy,
because of their importance for the economic development of ireland
given ireland’s dispersed population and the need for a private
outside of dublin.
passenger car fleet.
investment in urban cycle routes, bus corridors, hybrid/electric buses
Sea ports
and pedestrian facilities are critical to improve ireland’s urban spaces,
ireland’s commercial sea ports are vital for most exports and imports,
making them pollution and noise free as well as contributing to the eu
as well as for the tourism sector. furthermore, our marine
renewable energy directive to increase energy efficiency, use more
infrastructure includes both large and small fishing harbours and small
renewable fuel sources and reduce carbon emissions.
leisure harbours. the Port of Galway is currently awaiting the
green light to commence expansion of a new deep-water port and
Rail
reclaim land from Galway Bay under the strategic infrastructure Act.
ireland’s heavy rail network is certainly fit for purpose but increasing
the connectivity, particularly for freight, of our seaports to the overall
numbers of commuters and tourists will put a strain on certain urban
transport network needs to be prioritised.
WATER SUPPLY AND
WASTEWATER
The quality of Ireland’s drinking water is underpinned by investment in water treatment plants, and the quality
of the receiving aquatic environment is underpinned by investment in wastewater treatment plants.
OVERALL GRADE
12-MONTH
n Ensure that Ireland preserves a public water utility as the
best way of ensuring that the water industry is brought to the
standards required by a modern economy
n Ensure that adequate funding is available to allow the utility
to meet its objectives, including eliminating boil water
notices and reducing the number of supplies at risk
n Provide investment in infrastructure capacity to support
critical housing needs and employment growth
D
SECTOR GRADE
Water supply
C
Wastewater
D
FIVE-YEAR
n Place an immediate focus on
eliminating current boil water
notices and ensure that the risk of
further notices is addressed by 2021
n Progress construction of required
wastewater infrastructure so as to
achieve compliance with the Urban
Waste Water Treatment Directive
and eliminate the 45 untreated
discharges by 2021
Water supply
■ irish water supplies drinking water to 3.3 million people/80% of the
irish water’s Business Plan, published in october 2015, has identified a
population
€5.5bn capital investment need up to 2021, and the investment required to
■ 63,000km of water pipelines have been mapped
address all known deficits is estimated to be €13bn.
■ 1,600 million litres of drinking water are produced daily
for water and wastewater, the most critical item at present is the future of
■ Average age of an irish water main: 75 years; average age of an eu
ireland’s public water and wastewater utility – irish water – and resolving
the uK
■ 119 water treatment plants on the ePA’s remedial action list (rAl) (Q1
2016), supplying 800,000 people, need investment
■ over half of the 900 water supplies have one or more deficiency and
are below the industry standard
■ 29,165 customers are currently under boil water notices
■ nine new water treatment plants and 19 major upgrades to existing
investment levels are met.
1,600
mIllIon
lITreS of
drInKIng waTer
daIly
■ 47% of treated water is lost through leakage – almost twice the level of
the question of the funding model that will ensure that the required
Produced
water main: 36 years
water treatment plants are to be implemented by 2016
by irish water
■ wastewater infrastructure consists of 1,100 treatment plants and
25,000km of sewers
■ there are 45 locations where sewage is being discharged untreated or
with preliminary treatment only
■ 156 wastewater treatment plants are overloaded and do not meet the
required standards
■ Major and extensive upgrades to the wastewater networks are
required to meet eu directive standards
average age of IrISh
waTer maInS
75
■ 70% of the population is served by public sewerage schemes, operated
yearS
Wastewater
FLOOD MANAGEMENT
AND WATER QUALITY
Many parts of Ireland remain at high risk of flooding. In other areas that are currently not associated with
flooding, the risk will increase. This presents considerable challenges in terms of flood risk management.
OVERALL GRADE
12-MONTH
C
SECTOR GRADE
Flood management
D
Water quality
C
n Continue to engage with local
communities to develop specific
measures for each regional area
impacted by flooding
n Complete the flood risk management
plans, setting out the long-term strategy
for flood risk management
n Complete the second cycle of river basin
management plans
water quality deals with water in the natural environment – lakes, rivers,
groundwater, and coastal bays and estuaries. A major programme – the
river basin management plans – is underway to meet the objectives of the
eu’s water framework directive, which is designed to protect all
high-status waters, prevent further deterioration of all waters, and restore
degraded surface and ground waters to good status.
FIVE-YEAR
n Develop a national future flood
forecasting service
n Implement the measures and actions set
out in the flood risk management plans
in a timely manner
n Provide annual updates on the progress
of the implementation of the Water
Framework Directive
■ 48% of rivers, 57% of lakes, 55% of estuaries and 4% of coastal
waters assessed were impacted
■ the two most important suspected causes of river pollution are
agriculture and municipal sources, accounting for 53% and 34% of
cases, respectively
■ the 13.6% target for improvement in surface water as set out in
the first river basin management plan, as per the water
Flood management
framework directive, is unlikely to be achieved
■ 300 areas for further assessment (AfAs) have been identified,
including 90 coastal communities at risk
■ detailed flood maps were published in november 2015
■ More than 300 community public consultation days have been held
nationwide under the catchment flood risk Assessment and
Management (cfrAM) Programme
■ six flood relief schemes are in construction and 30 are at design
and planning stage
■ thirty-six flood relief schemes have been completed to date at a
Adverse weather has contributed to significant flooding events in
2015/2016, and with sudden, unfavourable weather likely to be a
future regular occurrence, the publication of the flood risk
management plans scheduled for summer 2016 is timely. flooding
caused by intense rainfall (pluvial) is compounded because the
amount of solid material going into gullies and drains increases,
causing blockages and flooding.
cost of €240m, providing protection to over 7,000 properties and
the minor works scheme funded through local authorities supports
more than €1bn in net present value benefits
minor works to alleviate specific problems identified locally. this
■ €33m has been approved for 500 projects under minor works
schemes with local authorities
funding model, which should continue for the foreseeable future, has
resulted in a total of 500 projects receiving approval in the past six
■ An arterial drainage maintenance programme is ongoing
years and contributes to the monitoring and maintenance
■ capital investment is to increase per annum from €50 million in
programme.
2016 to €100 million over the next six years
As part of the second river basin management plan, the seven river
basin districts (rBds) will be reconfigured into three rBds and new
Water quality
biological tools will be developed for the monitoring programme.
■ 99% of ireland’s groundwater is classed as ‘good’ – an increase from
this cycle will run until 2021 and the draft plans are currently being
85.4% in the last assessment by the environmental Protection Agency
developed in consultation, led by local authorities at regional level.
WASTE
The waste management sector has a key role to play in Ireland’s transition to a circular economy but a strong national
policy framework is required to deliver national targets and support market practitioners to continue to invest in the
collection and treatment infrastructure needed.
OVERALL GRADE
12-MONTH
C
n Continue the roll-out of the organic waste
collection system to households and businesses,
supporting the national transition to
pay-by-weight charging
n Compile and publish a live register of waste
treatment facilities to support the roll-out of
future investment
n Identify weaknesses in the current policy
environment, such as ineffective economic
instruments, which are not supporting
investment in new infrastructure, and
communicate the findings to policy makers
FIVE-YEAR
n Ensure that the necessary policy environment
and infrastructure is put in place to deliver the
prevention and recycling targets as set out in the
regional waste management plans
n Prioritise the development of indigenous waste
treatment facilities including anaerobic digestion
and biological treatment capacity, soil recovery
capacity, mechanical processing capacity and
additional thermal recovery capacity
n Review the need for contingency landfill capacity
as a national backstop to prevent serious
waste-related events that threaten the health of
citizens and our environment
What is the current state of waste infrastructure?
increasingly difficult to secure outlets for this exported waste in europe.
in 2014, the environmental Protection Agency (ePA) released some
the collection and treatment of organic wastes from households,
up-to-date statistics on progress towards eu waste recycling, recovery
businesses and the agricultural sector represents an opportunity for
and diversion targets, which indicate that ireland has already met or is on
innovation and jobs but requires continuous investment. More treatment
track to meet a range of waste targets, including the amount of total
facilities are required, as outlined in the regional waste plans. However,
biodegradable municipal waste permitted to go to landfill by 2016.
the policy environment in ireland has not sufficiently incentivised the
Achieving these goals has required progress on a number of fronts, with
market to attract the investment needed, with developments moving to
policy playing a key part in creating roles for both the public and private
northern ireland, where more attractive fiscal supports are available.
sectors. resource efficiency programmes such as the national waste
Prevention Programme and rx3 – rethink, recycle, remake – have been
extremely effective. As the circular economy increasingly becomes the
european waste policy is in the process of changing, which will require
core resource policy of the european commission, the discontinuation of
ireland to rethink our approach to managing waste, by viewing our waste
rx3 appears to be an opportunity missed to build on the initial work.
streams as valuable material resources. Making better use of our
in waste planning terms, waste management plans for the new southern,
resources and reducing the leakage of materials, as wastes, from our
eastern-Midlands, and connacht-ulster regions, and the national
economy, will deliver benefits economically and environmentally to
Hazardous waste Management Plan 2014-2020, have called for further
ireland. the move to a circular economy, replacing outdated industrial
investment in treatment infrastructure for inert, non-hazardous and
take-make-consume and dispose models, is essential if we are to make
hazardous wastes. it is important that the investment in treatment
better use of our resources and become more resource efficient. the
infrastructure identified in these waste plans is delivered to ensure that
waste sector has the potential to play a leading role in the development of
ireland’s policy objectives and targets are achieved.
the circular economy in ireland, and we must ensure that the policy
Alongside these policy developments has been the provision of thermal
environment supports the investment required.
recovery infrastructure, replacing landfills, for the treatment of residual
municipal and industrial wastes. the waste-to-energy facility in Meath is
operational and the new facility in Poolbeg, dublin, will commence
ireland needs to develop additional waste treatment facilities, including
production in 2017. Planning applications for a facility in co. cork and in
further biological treatment, reprocessing and recovery capacity, to
northern ireland’s arc21 waste region have also been lodged and should
ensure that the necessary indigenous infrastructure is in place to deliver
help to address the geographical imbalance in infrastructure on the
the waste management plans and provide for sustainable final treatment
island. Municipal waste that is not treated in ireland is currently being
of our wastes. we also need to ensure resilience and contingency in the
exported for recovery abroad. this activity is a lost economic and resource
sector, so that unforeseen waste events can be managed safely. these
opportunity and, if this waste was treated at home, would contribute
developments will support the policy shift necessary to ensure that waste
significantly to meeting renewable energy targets. it is also becoming
is treated as a valuable resource rather than as a burden on our economy.
ThinkMedia.ie
Engineers Ireland
22 clyde road
Ballsbridge
dublin 4.
tel: 00 353 1 665 1300
fax: 00 353 1 668 5508
www.engineersireland.ie

The STaTe of Ireland 2016

Transcription

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