Labour Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources, Pat Rabbitte, has launched a public consultation to invite views on reducing carbon emissions from the electricity sector by 2050.

Emissions from electricity generation amount to nearly 21% of Ireland's total national emissions, or some 11 and a half million tonnes of carbon dioxide. Reducing these emissions will be vital to ensure that Ireland plays it part in addressing climate change.

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A scoping report, which sets out the process through which a decarbonised electricity system will be planned, has been published to guide the public consultation process.

Commenting on the launch of the report, Minister Rabbitte said: "Over the coming months my Department will be evaluating options that can lower emissions from electricity generation while maintaining economic competitiveness and ensuring that everyone can afford to heat and power their homes. I encourage interested parties to participate in this consultation and let us know your views on what is achievable in Ireland."

(CD/JP)