The Government has launched a public consultation on an updated draft of Ireland's National Energy and Climate Plan (NECP).

Covering the period from 2021 to 2030, the NECP focuses on the actions Ireland is taking to meet its EU 2030 targets for greenhouse gas emission reductions, renewable energy, energy efficiency and electricity interconnection, as mandated by EU Regulations and Directives.

The objective of this consultation is to involve stakeholders and collect valuable input that will guide and shape the final iteration of the NECP.

The Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications, Eamon Ryan said:

"Engagement with stakeholders is central to the success of the NECP and climate action plans. While the NECP projections are based on 2021 implemented policies, in accordance with EU Guidelines, I am conscious that this is not as ambitious as our own recent 2024 climate action plan. Therefore, I encourage all stakeholders to be ambitious and to share their valuable feedback with us to help shape a robust response to our EU targets for greenhouse gas emissions reductions, renewable energy, energy efficiency and electricity interconnection. The final NECP will reflect most recent projections and our future ambition."

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All European Union (EU) Member States, including Ireland, develop NECPs to outline progress towards their climate and energy objectives and targets under EU legislation.

This consultation represents a pivotal stage in the NECP process, which will conclude with the submission of the final NECP to the European Commission in June 2024. Ireland submitted its draft NECP to the Commission in 2023.

The insights gained from the Commission's evaluation of the draft, combined with the feedback obtained from the stakeholder consultation, will be incorporated into the final NECP.

Another consultation will be conducted before submitting the final NECP to keep stakeholders informed and allow them to contribute to shaping the document.