ESB and the Institute of International and European Affairs (IIEA) hosted a conference on the transition to a net zero future.

Attended by acclaimed global and Irish policymakers, renowned thought leaders, key industry representatives and leading academics, the conference explored the latest developments and innovations that will be key to accelerating the transition to a net zero future for the benefit of all across society while addressing the challenges facing Ireland, Europe and beyond.

Paddy Hayes, Chief Executive of ESB, said: "Climate change remains one of the biggest global challenges and, at ESB, we believe that reducing carbon through clean electricity is now even more important than ever. Today’s conference with the IIEA will provide an opportunity to hear from some of the world’s foremost energy experts about the importance of continuing to accelerate the delivery of a net zero future."

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IIEA Director-General, Alex White, commented: "As we increasingly witness the impact of climate change on nations around the world, including here in Ireland, the imperative of a net zero future grows every day. As Ireland’s leading independent think tank and policy research institute, the IIEA is very proud to work with the ESB in creating this forum for discussion. It is our core belief that by sharing expertise and knowledge, engaging on the key topics and focusing on solutions we can all contribute to the innovations and strategies required to resolve the challenges that lie ahead."

During the conference attendees heard from a range of international and Irish experts including: Eamon Ryan TD, Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications, Michael Liebreich, Chairman and CEO of Liebreich Associates, Olivia Lazard, Fellow Carnegie Europe, Barbara Finamore, Senior Visiting Research Fellow, The Oxford Institute for Energy, Jim Gannon, Chairperson, CRU, John French, Chief Executive, UR and Laura Brien, CEO, Maritime Area Regulatory Authority.

The conference was chaired by Dearbhail McDonald, journalist, author and broadcaster.