NEEAP2 Consultation Paper

Ireland’s first National Energy Efficiency Action Plan (NEEAP) was published in May 2009 and sets out 90 actions that we are already taking or will take in the period to 2020 to achieve 20% energy efficiency savings across the public, business, residential, transport, and energy supply sectors. The savings identified in the first Action Plan represent approximately €1.6 billion in annual energy cost reductions for the economy in 2020 and will reduce our CO₂ emissions by approximately 5.7 million tonnes per annum. Achievement of the full target will provide further benefits.

Improving Ireland’s energy efficiency is an essential part of Ireland’s sustainable energy policy, and will play a vital role in reducing our dependence on fossil fuels. The Government’s energy policy is designed to steer Ireland to a new and sustainable energy future, one that helps us reduce greenhouse gas emissions and energy costs. Efficient energy use directly contributes to security of energy supply, sustainable transport, affordable energy, competitiveness and environmental sustainability.

The Government has committed to achieving, in 2020, a 20% reduction in energy demand across the whole of the economy through energy efficiency measures. Recognising that Government must lead by example, we are committed to achieving a 33% reduction in public sector energy use. Since the publication of our first action plan several new policy measures have been taken or will soon be launched to strengthen and deepen our energy savings efforts. Moreover, the European Union policy context is evolving with the publication of an Energy 2020 strategy that places even greater emphasis on the role of energy efficiency to achieve our 2020 targets.

Ireland is required to submit a second NEEAP by end-June 2011 in accordance with the provisions of the Energy Services Directive. The Department has commenced work on a revised NEEAP, drawing together a steering group of department’s and agencies that are involved in its implementation. The purpose of this paper is to seek the views of industry and other key stakeholders on our progress to date and on measures that may be considered in the context of completing our second action plan. The Department is interested in receiving the views of the energy industry and all interested parties, including consumers. To assist in responding to this consultation a number of questions are asked to stimulate discussion in areas of importance of NEEAP2.

• EU Commission Guide and Template for the preparation of the Second National Energy Efficiency Action Plans

• NEEAP1 90 Key Actions Update