The Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment, Darragh O'Brien, has presented a Memo to Cabinet detailing the ongoing work of the National Energy Affordability Taskforce (NEAT). The update focused on the taskforce’s expanded scope and governance as it addresses energy affordability challenges linked to the current conflict in the Middle East.

While the memo confirmed that Ireland's fuel supply chains remain robust, it highlighted that global energy prices are experiencing significant volatility, placing upward pressure on costs for both businesses and households. In response, NEAT is developing an Energy Affordability Action Plan, scheduled for submission to the government in the third quarter of 2026. This plan will address short, medium, and long-term measures across four pillars:

• Addressing the price of energy

• Sustainable demand and enhancing flexibility

• Addressing energy poverty and customer protections

• Energy affordability for businesses

To ensure a coordinated approach, several subgroups involving multiple government departments—including Finance, Transport, and Agriculture—have been established. The full taskforce is scheduled to meet tomorrow, 7 May.

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The process is being supported by engagement with external stakeholders. Last week, the taskforce met with the Community and Voluntary Pillar, featuring representatives from Age Action, the Society of St Vincent de Paul, the National Women's Council of Ireland, Irish Rural Link, the Environmental Pillar, and the Disability Federation of Ireland.

Minister O'Brien stated: "The ongoing conflict in the Middle East is driving energy prices in the wrong direction for households and businesses across Ireland. I am very conscious of the real pressure this is placing on families trying to manage household bills and on business trying to keep their costs under control. The government is taking action; we have already introduced €755 million in supports – including reductions in excise on fuel, the deferral of the carbon tax increase, an extended Fuel Allowance season, and enhanced supports for our hauliers, agricultural contractors and farmers – and we will continue to act as the situation develops. The government also launched the 'Saving Energy Saves Money' campaign which is designed to support householders and businesses to manage their energy costs, while highlighting the wide range of grants and financial supports available.

"The National Energy Affordability Taskforce is working at pace to develop a comprehensive response. An Energy Affordability Action Plan, built around tackling the cost of energy, protecting those most vulnerable to energy poverty, supporting businesses, and empowering consumers, will be brought to government in Q3.

"But we must also be honest about the longer term. We will not insulate ourselves from future price shocks unless we reduce our dependence on imported fossil fuels. That is why we are prioritising the development of more renewable energy – both onshore and offshore – and reforming the planning system to make it easier to build clean energy projects. Developing our own clean, indigenous energy is not just good for our climate; it is essential for our energy security and long-term competitiveness."