In a detailed Budget 2024 submission Wind Energy Ireland has called on the Irish Government to give the planning system the resources it needs to help accelerate renewable energy projects.
The trade group has also urged the Irish Government to establish a National Climate Emergency Communications Unit.
The representative body warned that with lengthy timelines for the delivery of infrastructure, Budget 2024 will be Ireland’s last opportunity to put in place the resources and expertise needed to achieve its 2030 targets.
The document, titled Ireland’s Energy Revolution, outlines Wind Energy Ireland’s recommendations to Government ahead of the next Budget that will be announced in October.
Noel Cunniffe, CEO of Wind Energy Ireland said: “We believe that Budget 2024 provides the Government with an opportunity to invest resources in the key building blocks for an Ireland which is energy independent and well on the way to net-zero.
“Giving the planning system the resources it needs to ensure applications for renewable energy projects are thoroughly, but quickly, assessed is a vital investment for our future.
“That means agreeing with An Bord Pleanála, the NPWS, MARA and local authorities the number of staff, with the right expertise, they will need to assess the renewable energy projects essential to our Climate Action Plan targets.”
He also added that it is an opportunity “begin taking seriously” the need to empower communities to be part of Ireland’s response to the climate emergency.
Cunniffe said: “Whether it is increasing our usage of electric vehicles, supporting active travel or installing solar panels, educating businesses and communities about sustainable solutions should be at the forefront of our efforts to inspire people to change.
“That is why we are calling for the establishment of a dedicated National Climate Emergency Communications Unit to ensure people have the information they need.”
Funding to support the electrification of Ireland’s energy system and investment in skills development are also addressed in the pre-budget submission.
It highlights the need to have the necessary grid infrastructure and provide adequate funding and financial incentives for key infrastructure like EV charging points, facilitating commercial car fleet electrification, industrial and domestic heat electrification.
“When our renewable energy is flowing we need to have a society that can use the electricity generated.
“This means having the grid infrastructure in place to distribute the energy to our homes, businesses and transport systems.
“All of these need to rapidly change to electricity as their primary source of power and away from polluting fossil fuels,” Cunniffe added.