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www.engIneerSIreland.Ie 1
A review of infrAstructure in irelAnd
www.engineersireland.ie
The STaTe of Ireland 2016a revIew of InfraSTrucTure In Ireland
2 engIneerS Ireland
contents
Director General’s foreword 3
Executive summary 4
Energy Advisory Group 5
Abbreviations and definitions 5
Summary of key recommendations 2016 6
Grading system 6
Energy 8
Communications 25
Transport 26
Water supply and wastewater 28
Flood management and water quality 29
Waste 30
with over 23,000 members from everydiscipline of engineering, engineers Ireland isthe voice of the engineering profession inIreland.
we have been representing the engineeringprofession since 1835, making us one of theoldest and largest professional bodies inIreland.
our members represent every discipline ofengineering, and range from engineeringstudents to fellows of the profession.
our responsibilities are to:� promote knowledge of engineering� establish and maintain standards of
professional engineering and engineeringeducation
� provide opportunities for continuingprofessional development (cPd) forengineers
� maintain standards of professional ethicsand conduct
� ensure that professional titles are grantedto qualified candidates, and
� act as the authoritative voice of theengineering profession in Ireland
engIneerS Ireland 3
A review of infrAstructure in irelAnd
After more than six years of recession, we have arrived at a period of
sustained, though fragile, growth. According to the european
commission country report for ireland (february 2016), the strong
rebound of the irish economy has broadened and gained further
momentum. legacy issues nevertheless persist, and the commission
identifies infrastructure needs as one of our key remaining challenges.
Infrastructure for prosperityif ireland is to prosper, infrastructural development will be an essential
contributory factor. High-quality infrastructure is an important element of
a modern society and economy. it strengthens economic growth through
enhancing efficiency, productivity and competitiveness. it also underpins
social cohesion through providing vital facilities for citizens. engineers
ireland firmly believes that our public investment programme must
increase significantly if we are to meet increased demands for a modern
european public infrastructure. the current capital Plan ‘Building on
recovery’ (Bor) (2015), which presents the Government’s commitment to
exchequer investment of €27 billion over the six-year period 2016-2021,
falls short of addressing the gap. we strongly urge the new Government to
initiate the mid-term review provided for in Bor, and commit to increased
funding that is both adequate to meet the investment level required and
provides certainty to the public, investors and industry. importantly, any
increased investment must be the result of an evidence-based discussion
about long-term planning. infrastructure policy, planning and
decision-making are inexorably linked to the political process because of
the use of public funds. Political leadership is therefore required in
determining what kind of future societal and economic model we wish to
have, where we allocate resources and how we build consensus to support
decision-making for the long term. Addressing a round table discussion
with industry leaders and senior policy makers, hosted by engineers
ireland earlier this year, institution of civil engineers (ice) President sir
John Armitt described a similar challenge faced in the uK, which led to the
establishment of the national infrastructure commission – an
independent body whose remit is long-term strategic decision-making to
build effective and efficient infrastructure for the uK.
Single entity neededengineers ireland has advocated for the establishment of a single entity
charged with prioritising integrated infrastructure development in this
country. there are many examples internationally of how such an entity
could be structured to best support the determination and implementation
of policy on infrastructure – decoupled from the electoral cycle. this entity
would also be responsible for co-ordinating a long-term, cross-sectoral
approach to building political and public consensus and understanding on
national infrastructure performance, under a range of possible futures.
the annual ‘state of ireland’ report is a further contribution by engineers
ireland on the performance, capability and condition of ireland’s key
infrastructure networks. in 2016, we have taken a different approach and
developed a new methodology for assessment. the main body of the
report focuses primarily on the energy sector, with short updates on the
other four areas of communications, transport, waste and water. these
other areas will be focussed on in depth in future state of ireland reports.
ireland’s energy infrastructure is critical to our competitiveness and is of
particular importance as we move to a carbon-free society. As an island
nation, security of supply is paramount to ensure the health and
well-being of our citizens. As a member of the european union and the
global community, our commitments under the eu renewable energy
directive and coP21 mean that we have to develop a more efficient and
sustainable energy system, moving away from fossil fuels and greenhouse
gas (GHG) emissions. this type of shift to renewable fuels requires
investment in new technologies and infrastructure to support the
transition from a high-carbon, fuel import economy to one that is carbon
free and practically self-sufficient. this transition period will require
leadership and long-term planning to develop and build the infrastructure
required. courageous decisions will have to be made now to ensure that
future generations enjoy a carbon-free society by 2100. these decisions
will have to be supported by the public and a transition of this nature is
heavily dependent on their engagement.
Expert opinionthe energy section of this report has received input from a large group of
experienced engineers, working in organisations that specialise in energy
infrastructure. the consolidation of their opinions into this report over a
series of round table discussions is designed to inform those who make
policy and capital investment decisions about infrastructure in ireland,
including permanent members of Government as well as private investors.
we hope that the report gives rise to debate on the future development of
ireland’s infrastructure and that attention is paid to the recommended
actions, which we believe are essential to the continued growth of the irish
economy and to achieving our renewable energy, GHG and energy
efficiency targets.
i would like to thank all those who gave up their time to contribute to this
year’s report. the knowledge and experience of our diverse membership
has resulted in an informed document, which comments on policy that
affects us all.
DIRECTOR GENERAL’S FOREWORD The sixth in an annual series of independent reports on Ireland’s infrastructure, ‘The State ofIreland 2016’ is a timely intervention in the conversation about Ireland’s future.
Caroline SpillaneDirector General
this report looks at five key areas of infrastructure –
communications, energy, transport, water and waste. our
engineering experts assign grades based on the current
status of key infrastructure and its ability to meet
future demand. A number of action
items for the short and medium
term are also recommended.
in 2016, energy infrastructure has
been examined in greater detail,
given the recent publication of the
department of communications,
climate change and natural
resources (dcccnr) energy white
Paper and the approaching deadline of
2020, the limit for achieving the first
set of renewable energy source (res),
energy efficiency and carbon
emission targets.
like the rest of europe, ireland
is obliged under the eu
renewable energy directive to
achieve certain targets and
contribute to the global move
towards a sustainable energy
supply that is secure and
affordable. failure to achieve these
targets could result in significant fines
from the eu.
ireland is on track to achieve the national res for electricity
generation target (res-e). However, ireland needs to accelerate its
efforts, as based on its current trajectory it is not likely to reach the
res targets for heating/cooling (thermal) (res-H) and transport
(res-t). the knock-on effect is not achieving the overall res.
similarly, the energy efficiency and carbon emission goals are likely
to be missed.
Renewable energy
ireland’s energy efficiency performance is inadequate and a
significant change in how we consider and measure energy
efficiency is required to ensure that it becomes part of long-term
infrastructure planning in the future. A new approach to planning in
ireland is required and a non-departmental independent body
should be established to look at strategic infrastructure.
ireland’s citizens have a huge role to play in ensuring that ireland
successfully achieves all of the targets. changes in behaviour with
regard to how we use energy, and more accepting attitudes towards
new technologies, will be required. Adult and school-based
education programmes, and stakeholder awareness campaigns to
enlighten and empower the energy
citizen, are necessary.
the introduction of res in
electricity generation has
progressed well through the
public service obligation
(Pso) and other financial
incentives for developers.
technological advances and the
development of additional res to
generate electricity will all contribute
to the successful achievement of the
target (res-e).
Government leadership is required to
drive through the changes required
in the heating/cooling (thermal) and
transport sectors.
Policy makers should learn from tools
such as the Pso and incentive schemes
like refit, which were successfully used
to introduce renewable energy into
electricity generation and apply these to
assist with accelerating efforts to reach the res-H
and res-t targets.
Policy action
Policy changes for specific technological actions that result in the
introduction of more sources of res infrastructure are required,
including building anaerobic digestion plants to generate biogas, as
well as deep retrofits of domestic, commercial and public buildings
to reduce energy demand and decrease the amount of renewables
required to achieve the 2020 target and beyond.
ireland’s private car fleet makes the biggest contribution to co2
emissions, and should be tackled as a priority, given that it is almost
all fossil fuel burning, with only a small portion of electric vehicles
(evs) in private ownership. improvements in technology, financial
incentives and changes in attitude towards electric cars are all
required to ensure the shift that is required in the majority mindset.
our research capabilities are vibrant and diverse and should remain
so, with particular focus on developing technologies that exploit the
natural resources we have on our doorstep.
All of our efforts must be supported by adequate legislation, which
allows for infrastructure planning and development that ensures the
delivery of large infrastructure projects.
Other areas
shorter updates on communications, transport, water and waste
infrastructure are contained at the back of this report.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The STaTe of Ireland 2016
4 engIneerS Ireland
engIneerS Ireland 5
A review of infrAstructure in irelAnd
� John Ahern, Managing director, indaver
� Dermot Byrne, vice President, engineers ireland
(deputy chairman)
� Kelley Cousins, Marketing and communications,
engineers ireland
� Geraldine Ann Cusack, senior Business specialist, energy
and environment, siemens
� Prof. Tony Day, executive director, international energy
research centre
� Dr Paul Deane, senior researcher, energy Policy and
Modelling Group, ucc
� Tom Egan, Head of PowerGen, Bórd na Móna
� Dr Kieran Feighan, vice President, engineers ireland (chairman)
� John Fitzgerald, director, Grid development and interconnection,
eirGrid
� Paddy Hayes, executive director, Generation and wholesale
Markets, esB
� Brendan Heneghan, interim ceo, irish wind energy Association
(iweA)
� Paul Hickey, Manager, systems and sustainability, esB
networks
� Fionnuala Kilbane, editor, 53ten technical communications
� Dónal Kissane, chairman, energy and environment division
(Gas networks ireland)
� Eoghan Lynch, Group leader ireland, Arup
� Cormac Madden, regulation and strategy, esB
� Terry Nolan, energy consultant
� Colm O’Mahony, energy sector Head, PM Group
� Paul O’Reilly, Partner, ors
� Damien Owens, registrar, engineers ireland
� Tina Raleigh, director, energy Projects, fehily timoney & co.
� John Ringwood, director, centre for ocean energy research,
nui Maynooth
� PJ Rudden, Group Business director ireland and uK
infrastructure, rPs Group
� Henry Smyth, Head of economic regulation and technical,
ervia
ENERGY ADVISORY GROUP
ABBREVIATIONS AND DEFINITIONSBEF – better energy financing schemeBOS – biofuels obligation scheme CCS – carbon capture and storageCER – commission for energy regulation CFRAM – catchment flood risk assessment and managementCHP – combined heat and powerCNG – compressed natural gasCO2 – carbon dioxide DCCCNR – department of communications, climate change and natural resourcesEV – electric vehicle
FiT – feed-in tariff GHG – greenhouse gasPAYS – pay-as-you-save scheme PSO – public service obligation levy PV – photovoltaic REFIT – renewable energy feed in tariffRES – renewable energy sourcesRES-E – renewable energy sources contribution to electricity generationRES-H – renewable energy sources contribution to heating/cooling energy RES-T – renewable energy sources contribution to transport energy
RHI – renewable heat incentive SEAI – sustainable energy Authority of irelandtCO2 – total carbon dioxide, a measure of carbon dioxide Waste-to-energy - or energy-from-waste (EfW) is the process of generating energy in the form of electricity and/or heat from the primary treatment of waste. renewable energy from waste is generated from a source that can be replenished including municipal solid waste and landfill gas.
Well maintained, ingood condition,appropriatecapacity andplanning for futuredevelopment
Acceptablestandard, properlymaintained, able tomeet demand,though investmentneeded in the nextfive years
Inadequatelymaintained, and/orunable to meetpeak demand, andrequiringsignificantinvestment
Below standard,poorly maintained,frequent inability tomeet capacity andrequiringimmediateinvestment to avoidadverse impact onnational economy
Unacceptablecondition,insufficientcapacity, andalready impactingon the nationaleconomy
GrAdinG systeMAnalysis of key areas of infrastructure includes a straightforward grading system.Engineers Ireland has assessed each area of infrastructure using the following grades:
ENERGY12-month
� develop an implementation plan with clear targets
and milestones, which details actions around the
many ambitions identified in the energy white Paper
� Progress the north–south interconnector to further bolster security of
supply and reduce cost to the consumer, as well as exploring other
interconnection options with a view to developing them if and when
appropriate
� Publish details regarding the renewable Heat incentive (rHi) in 2016
as promised, prioritising large industry to commence switching to
renewable energy, which should dovetail with smaller industry and
domestic residences
� Accelerate education programmes for communities and individuals on
the benefits of energy efficiency and switching to renewable fuels
through retrofitting their homes or community-driven district heating
systems
� the Government should lead by example, with ministers encouraged to
replace their existing fossil fuel-powered cars with hybrids or electric
vehicles (evs)
� irish state agency car, van and bus fleets should also be progressively
converted to electric, compressed natural gas (cnG) and hybrid
modes, respectively, with the cnG network rolled out as planned
Five-year
� review and revise energy policy every three to five years, and inform
the process with reports on progress made, gaps to target and new
technological developments
� continue to diversify ireland’s electricity fuel generation mix and
expand the renewables base
� Maintain investment in the transmission and distribution networks to
meet the needs of a growing economy and the transition from fossil
fuels to renewables
� explore technology solutions such as energy storage and further
interconnection to address variable renewable generation
� encourage renewable energy in ireland and harness ireland’s already
identified naturally occurring renewable resources
� carry out a deep retrofit of ireland’s domestic dwellings and public
buildings to reduce energy demand and increase energy efficiency
� convert the 900,000 homes that are not connected to the gas network,
and which use solid fuel or oil for heat, to an appropriate electric
heating solution
� incentivise the production of biogas from anaerobic digestion plants to
enable 20% of natural gas be displaced by biogas from the gas
distribution system
� encourage industrial locations that are off the natural gas network to
implement biomass solutions for their thermal (heating/cooling)
requirements
� Accelerate the purchase of evs by irish consumers through soft
incentives such as the use of bus corridors, revisiting the registration
tax and exploring other financial incentives
� continue to build out the necessary charging infrastructure to keep
pace with ev adoption
� ensure that public transport is more accountable in delivering the
res-t and carbon emission targets
The STaTe of Ireland 2016
6 engIneerS Ireland
SUMMARY OF KEY RECOMMENDATIONS 2016
A B C D EGrAdinG scAle
A = 90-100%
B = 80-89%
C = 70-79%
D = 51-69%
E = 50% or lower
C
COMMUNICATIONS
12-month
� Award the national Broadband Plan (nBP)
intervention to a contractor(s) and confirm the
deployment schedule nationally
� continue the roll-out of the 4G mobile networks nationally and
protect the quality of traditional mobile services such as voice
� continue to reduce service costs when rates and speeds are not
equal in rural/urban areas
Five-year
� roll-out of affordable high-speed broadband services nationally
� ireland’s national broadband infrastructure should be in the top
five of european league tables in terms of availability, uptake and
speed
� continue to research and develop the network in anticipation
of 5G services
TRANSPORT 12-month
� Progress funding mechanisms for delayed
national road projects countrywide
� improve road management systems in conjunction
with increased road maintenance funds
� Progress development of second runway at dublin Airport
� develop solution for north dublin and dublin Airport rail
� continue to invest in improved facilities for pedestrians and
cyclists, in particular in the major cities
Five-year
� Accelerate the prioritisation of investment in infrastructure
projects to increase ireland’s competitiveness and address the
unemployment challenge
� Progress the planning process for port redevelopments in cork
and Galway
� Agree standards for data formats and communication protocols
for integrated traffic systems to enable information sharing
� continue to work towards the development of an integrated, frequent
and reliable network of public transport services in our cities,
including integrating fare structures across bus and rail modes
WATER SUPPLY AND WASTEWATER12-month
� ensure that ireland preserves a public water
utility as the best way of ensuring that the water
industry is brought to the standards required by a
modern economy
� ensure that adequate funding is available to allow the utility to
meet its objectives, including eliminating boil notices and reducing
the number of supplies at risk
� Provide investment in infrastructure capacity to support critical
housing needs and employment growth
Five-year
� Place an immediate focus on eliminating current boil water
notices and ensure that the risk of further notices is addressed by
2021
� Progress construction of required wastewater infrastructure so
as to achieve compliance with the urban waste water
treatment directive and eliminate the 45 untreated discharges
by 2021
FLOOD MANAGEMENT AND WATER QUALITY
12-month
� continue to engage with local communities to
develop specific measures for each regional area
impacted by flooding
� complete the flood risk management plans, setting out the
long-term strategy for flood risk management
� complete the second cycle of river basin management plans
Five-year
� develop a national future flood forecasting service
� implement the measures and actions set out in the flood risk
management plans in a timely manner
� Provide annual updates on the progress of the implementation of
the water framework directive
WASTE12-month
� continue the roll-out of the organic waste
collection system to households and businesses,
supporting the national transition to
pay-by-weight charging
� compile and publish a live register of waste treatment facilities to
support the roll-out of future investment
� identify weaknesses in the current policy environment, such as
ineffective economic instruments, which are not supporting
investment in new infrastructure, and communicate the findings to
policy makers
Five-year
� ensure that the necessary policy environment and
infrastructure is put in place to deliver the prevention and
recycling targets as set out in the regional waste management
plans
� Prioritise the development of indigenous waste treatment
facilities including anaerobic digestion and biological treatment
capacity, soil recovery capacity, mechanical processing capacity
and additional thermal recovery capacity
� review the need for contingency landfill capacity as a national
backstop to prevent serious waste-related events that threaten
the health of citizens and our environment
engIneerS Ireland 7
A review of infrAstructure in irelAnd
B
C
D
C
C
The STaTe of Ireland 2016
8 engIneerS Ireland
SECTOR GRADEEnergy efficiency: D
Electricity (RES-E): B
Heating/cooling (RES-H): C
Transport (RES-T): C
OVERALL GRADE RECOMMENDATIONS FOR 2016
ENERGY
C12-MONTH� develop an implementation plan with clear
targets and milestones, which details actionsaround the many ambitions identified in theenergy white Paper
� Progress the north–south interconnector tofurther bolster security of supply and reducecost to the consumer, as well as exploringother interconnection options with a view todeveloping them if and when appropriate
� Publish details regarding the renewable Heatincentive (rHi) in 2016 as promised,prioritising large industry to commenceswitching to renewable energy, which shoulddovetail with smaller industry and domesticresidences
� Accelerate education programmes forcommunities and individuals on the benefits ofenergy efficiency and switching to renewablefuels through retrofitting their homes orcommunity-driven district heating systems
� the Government should lead by example, withministers encouraged to replace their existingfossil fuel-powered cars with hybrids orelectric vehicles (evs)
� irish state agency car, van and bus fleetsshould also be progressively converted toelectric, compressed natural gas (cnG) andhybrid modes, respectively, with the cnGnetwork rolled out as planned
FIVE-YEAR� review and revise energy policy every three to
five years, and inform the process with reportson progress made, gaps to target and newtechnological developments
� continue to diversify ireland’s electricity fuelgeneration mix and expand the renewables base
� Maintain investment in the transmission anddistribution networks to meet the needs of agrowing economy and the transition fromfossil fuels to renewables
� explore technology solutions such as energystorage and further interconnection toaddress variable renewable generation
� encourage renewable energy in ireland andharness ireland’s already identified naturallyoccurring renewable resources
� carry out a deep retrofit of ireland’s domesticdwellings and public buildings to reduceenergy demand and increase energy efficiency
� convert the 900,000 homes that are notconnected to the gas network, and which usesolid fuel or oil for heat, to an appropriateelectric heating solution
� incentivise the production of biogas fromanaerobic digestion plants to enable 20% ofnatural gas be displaced by biogas from thegas distribution system
� encourage industrial locations that are offthe natural gas network to implementbiomass solutions for their thermal(heating/cooling) requirements
� Accelerate the purchase of evs by irishconsumers through soft incentives such as theuse of bus corridors, revisiting the registrationtax and exploring other financial incentives
� continue to build out the necessary charginginfrastructure to keep pace with ev adoption
� ensure that public transport is moreaccountable in delivering the res-t andcarbon emission targets
Ireland’s economy is dependent on a sustainable energy
infrastructure that meets our future needs. the Government’s
energy white Paper ‘ireland’s transition to a low carbon energy
future’ and the recent coP21 agreement, which ireland has
already signed, have moved the three pillars of sustainability,
security of supply and competitiveness centre stage.
in this section of the report, we examine the electricity, heating
and transport energy sectors.
we assess their current status in light of the eu energy efficiency,
renewable energy and carbon emission targets, plus the national
and global move towards decarbonisation. in addition, we
recommend particular actions to ensure ireland’s continued
journey to a low fossil fuel economy.
ireland has a number of targets to achieve as set out in the eu
renewable energy directive (2009/28/ec), which states that a total
of 16% of the country’s total energy consumption must come from
renewable energy sources (res) by 2020. in order to achieve the
16% overall target, the Government set a national renewable energy
electricity target of 40% (res-e) and a national renewable energy
heat target of 12% (res-H), alongside a mandatory eu renewable
energy modes of transport target (res-t) of 10% specified in the
directive. similarly in northern ireland, the department of
enterprise, trade and investment (deti) published the strategic
energy framework (sef) in september 2010, which also sets out a
40% res electricity target to be reached by 2020. Given the
all-island electricity market, it makes obvious sense to work
together to accomplish a shared objective. An analysis carried out
by the department of communications, climate change and natural
resources (dcccnr) indicates that a shortfall in the overall res of
between 1% and 4% could result in a one-off cost to the exchequer
of €140m to €600m.
simultaneously, ireland must also increase its energy efficiency by
reducing energy demand by 20% of the historic average energy used
during the period 2000-2005, as well as reducing carbon emissions
from sectors that are outside the eu ets (non-ets emissions) by 20%
compared to 2005 levels.
with ireland’s population projected to grow by 10% to 5,247,000 by
2030, there is a real possibility that energy needs will increase in
parallel with our commitment to reduce carbon emissions based on
national and eu targets.
However, there may be opportunities for ireland too. ireland’s current
energy policy, laid out in the dcccnr energy white Paper published
in december 2015, seeks to achieve the optimum benefits at the
lowest cost, and to realise economic opportunities where these
opportunities present themselves.
the sustainable energy Authority of ireland (seAi) has previously
reported that there is an estimated market of €300 billion per year for
sustainable energy technologies and services internationally.
ireland has established a positive reputation as a global testing
ground for prototype renewable technologies, for example. continued
research and development in, and deployment of green technologies,
could assure the country’s place as a leader in this field.
the seAi energy consumption statistics for 2014 indicate that
despite our economy growing by 5.2%, primary energy demand fell
in 2013 by 0.5% and energy-related co2 emissions decreased by
1.2%, indicating that energy efficiency and renewable electricity
policies are having a measurable impact. this is further underlined
by the decrease in the consumption of all fuels in 2014 with the
exception of peat, renewables and non-renewable wastes. However,
A review of infrAstructure in irelAnd
engIneerS Ireland 9
Sustainability – The provision of energy that meets current
demands without compromising the future in terms of energy
security and long-term damage to the environment.
Target 2020 target 2016 (actual) Distance to target
Renewable energy source (RES overall) 16% 8.6% 7.4%
RES contribution to electricity (RES-E) 40% 22.7% 17.3%
RES contribution to heat (RES-H) 12% 6.6% 5.4%
RES contribution to transport (RES-T) 10% 5.2% 4.8%
Energy efficiency 20% saving 8-9% saving 11-12% saving
Greenhouse gas emissions 20% --- Projected to fall short by 6-11%
The EU Emissions Trading Scheme (EU ETS) is a market-based
approach to controlling pollution by providing economic incentives
for achieving reductions in the emissions of pollutants. The EU
ETS covers more than 11,000 factories, power stations and other
installations with a heat excess of 20MW in 31 countries, which
were responsible for some 40% of greenhouse gas (GHG)
emissions in 2008. Non-ETS sectors are domestic, small business
or small industry, transport, agriculture and waste.
Source: DCCCNR, Energy White Paper/SEAI/EPA
both the environmental Protection Agency (ePA) and the seAi have
indicated in recent reports that ireland is likely to miss out on the
overall 2020 renewable energy target (res overall) of 16% due to lack
of progress introducing renewable energy into the heat and transport
sectors, which may result in compliance costs within the eu.
similarly, the emissions targets will be missed as a result of both of
these combined with the impact of the agricultural sector. the good
news is that similar expert indications would suggest that ireland is
likely to achieve if not exceed the national renewable electricity target
of 40% (res-e), demonstrating that with the right incentives and
focus, the shift to renewable energy can be possible for all sectors.
ireland’s vulnerability in terms of security of supply is further
indicated by its fuel import dependency, which has increased since
1990 and only decreased slightly in 2014. ireland currently imports
90% of its gas and generates almost half of its electricity from gas.
the corrib gas field is strategically important to ireland from an
energy security of supply perspective because at peak production,
corrib has the capacity to deliver more than 60% of ireland’s gas
needs.
ireland is caught in its own energy trilemma of sustainability,
security of supply and affordability. the publication of the dcccnr
energy white Paper has put the focus of energy policy firmly on the
sustainability pillar, while ensuring that security and affordability
are maintained.
The STaTe of Ireland 2016
10 engIneerS Ireland
Indigenous energy sources
Environmentally sound
Economically viable
Ireland’s energy Trilemma
Affordability
Sustainability
Security of supply
Overall World Index: Ireland is ranked 22 out of 130 countries, below Malaysia and above Singapore
world energy council, energy Trilemma Index – Ireland
Environmentalsustainability
– A
Energy equity– B
Energy security – C
ENERGY EFFICIENCY
As europe moves to implement the Paris climate Agreement,
two-thirds of its low-carbon energy infrastructure investment to
2040 will need to be in energy efficiency. this implies an eightfold
increase in current levels of investment. the european
commission’s Heating and cooling strategy has started to set out
the links between energy efficiency and the wider energy
infrastructure system. the energy union strategy has called for a
fundamental rethinking of energy efficiency, to treat it as an energy
source in its own right, representing the value of energy saved.
without a major rethink, we risk the ability to meet our climate and
energy targets in 2020 and beyond, if we fail to properly grasp the
nature of the challenge.
in future, energy efficiency needs to be redefined as a core part of
ireland’s energy infrastructure, and there needs to be more explicit
integration. treating energy efficiency as infrastructure and
integrating it into wider national infrastructure planning means that
supply side investment needs will fall as projected demand falls,
thus reducing the risk of asset stranding and reducing costs to
society. energy efficiency fulfils the definition of infrastructure used
by the international Monetary fund and other economic institutions.
like traditionally recognised infrastructure, energy efficiency is
long-lasting capital stock, provides inputs to a wide range of goods
and services, and frees up capacity elsewhere in the economy.
the three energy targets of improved efficiency, increased
renewable fuel sources in final consumption and a reduction in
carbon emissions are interlinked and mutually dependent.
According to the international energy Agency, improved energy
efficiency in buildings, industrial processes and transportation could
reduce the world’s energy needs in 2050 by one-third and help to
control greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. conversely, if ireland fails
to reduce its energy demand, more renewable energy will be
required to meet the 2020 targets. An additional benefit of energy
efficiency is that ireland can reduce its volume of fuel imports and
consequently slow down the rate at which domestic fossil fuel
energy resources are depleted. while fossil fuels will eventually be
phased out, during this transition period towards a zero-carbon
future, ireland will have to take a pragmatic approach when it
comes to leveraging our natural carbon-based resources, such as
natural gas.
How would you rate Ireland’s energy efficiency performance: Direland’s energy efficiency infrastructure, which can be defined as
capital stock – residences, manufacturing plants, public and
commercial buildings, our electricity generation fuel mix and our
transport fleet – is currently unable to meet the demands of the
energy efficiency targets and requires significant investment to reach
an adequate standard. energy efficiencies can be achieved from the
point of energy generation right through to the final use in a domestic
dwelling, public building or industrial premises. similarly, electric
vehicles (evs) charged using renewable power are more energy
efficient than those powered by traditional fuels.
reducing the demand for energy by conserving it will quite simply
reduce the amount of energy used, but this requires significant
investment in energy efficiency at the point of use, as well as
continued education about energy usage.
the residential sector in ireland consists of an estimated 1.7 million
homes and in 2014 accounted for the largest share of final thermal
energy usage with 44%, even greater than industry at 35%. in the past
seven years, some 300,000 homes (17.5%) have been retrofitted to
become more energy efficient. the seAi suggests that an estimated
€35 billion over 35 years will be required to make the remainder of
the existing housing stock low carbon by 2050 at an average cost of
€20,000 per retrofit.
engIneerS Ireland 11
2020Target
2005
energy efficiency target and Ireland’s current position:
National: Target is 20%
2020Target
20052016 2016
Public bodies: Target is 33%
Distance to target 11-12%
8-9% achieved
Distance to target 16%
17% achieved
A review of infrAstructure in irelAnd
(Source: SEAI)
The STaTe of Ireland 2016
12 engIneerS Ireland
industry management is starting to realise that
there are increased savings to be made when
energy efficiencies are introduced to
offices and manufacturing processes.
Movements like industry 4.0 – the
fourth industrial revolution – can
identify ‘wasted’ energy through
monitoring practices. introducing
energy efficiency methodologies
and upgrading existing systems or
buildings have helped industry to
reduce its costs. the seAi has an
important role to play in continuing to
educate both businesses and consumers
on their responsibilities with regard to
balancing their demand for energy and
adapting energy efficiency measures if ireland’s
future generations are to benefit from a carbon-free society.
though transport primary energy use fell by 28% between 2007
and 2013, transport accounts for 34% of primary energy
requirement in ireland. with 56% of all transport energy
consisting of diesel and just 0.06% of passenger cars being
plug-in evs, ireland’s transport sector could not be described as
energy efficient.
What does the future hold?ireland is just below halfway (8-9%) to its eu mandatory 2020
energy efficiency target of 20%, even though Government-
supported policy initiatives were introduced to save households’
and businesses’ fuel costs. while policies are in place to
encourage greater energy efficiency, it is clear that accelerated
action will be necessary to further this progress if ireland is to
successfully reach its obligations under the eu renewable energy
directive. the energy white Paper references the active energy
citizen and it is imperative that our citizens are engaged in the
energy transition ahead and fully support it.
while there are serious changes and disruption to come,
individuals need to learn about how these new technologies can
enhance their lives and provide them with opportunities for cost
savings.
An education programme designed to engage the active citizen or
create more energy citizens needs to be implemented over many
years as the transition will take generations to take effect in
changing attitudes and behaviours.
smart metering also has a role to play in ireland’s successful
implementation of energy efficiency strategies, as information
coupled with technology is a key enabler of energy management.
the ‘internet of things’ (iot), big data and real-time information
all provide opportunities to engage the active energy citizen in
controlling their energy consumption and encouraging them to
contribute to ireland’s climate change strategy.
the public sector has an even more ambitious energy efficiency
target of 33% to reach by 2020. in the 2015 analysis, a 17%
improvement in energy consumption had been achieved. while
this is to be commended as it was achieved during
what was a difficult time for many public
bodies, there needs to be an acceleration of
activity in the next four years if the public
sector is to contribute as planned to the
overall eu obligation.
What actions do we need to take?engineers ireland welcomes the
Government’s energy white Paper as
setting a very clear direction for ireland’s
energy policy out to 2030 and beyond to
2050. However, the organisation is somewhat
concerned at the lack of a robust
implementation plan with clear targets and
milestones, supported by the appropriate enabling
policies and with an effective governance framework. the example of
having such an implementation framework can be seen through the
successful delivery of over 2,000Mw of renewable generation and the
delivery of the east–west interconnector under the auspices of the
2007 energy white Paper. we need a similar approach to deliver the
key projects identified across all energy sectors – electricity,
heating/cooling and transport – and a step change in our attitude
towards how we think about energy efficiency infrastructure.
it is clear that the responsibility for achieving the eu mandatory
targets falls across many Government departments, whereas an
integrated approach is necessary, with leadership at cabinet level. A
culture change in how we approach long-term planning and
infrastructure is undoubtedly required.
we can learn from other jurisdictions, such as the uK, which has
established the national infrastructure commission (nic). the
commission was set up on an interim basis in 2015 and looked at the
uK’s future needs for nationally significant infrastructure, taking a
long-term approach to the major investment decisions facing the
country. the aim of the nic is to enable long-term strategic
decision-making to build effective and efficient infrastructure for the
uK, and it is to be established by legislation as a non-departmental
independent body. this type of structure allows it to operate
independently of Government yet still remaining accountable to the
treasury for its performance and allocation of public funds.
More specifically, if we accept that we need to invest in energy
efficiency infrastructure, a deep retrofit of ireland’s domestic
dwellings and public buildings should be undertaken to reduce
energy demand and increase energy efficiency. the deployment of
energy efficiency retrofits for domestic, commercial and public
buildings provides an important pathway for increasing energy
security, decreasing energy demand, reducing GHG emissions, and
reducing demand for new energy production and distribution
facilities.
A dedicated long-term resource needs to be allocated to educating
citizens about their energy responsibilities, including specific
programmes aimed at the adult generation and a new programme
developed for the primary and secondary school curriculums.
A culture change in how we approachlong-term planning and infrastructure
is undoubtedly required.
A review of infrAstructure in irelAnd
ELECTRICITY (RES-E)
electricity is vital to virtually every aspect of people’s lives and to
the economy. today’s society is very heavily reliant on ‘smart’
tools that manage everything from traffic signals to home
heating. there would be a massive impact on the running of the
state and private enterprise if the supply of continuous power is
interrupted. technology requires power and there is a real need
to balance this growing demand with decarbonising the network
and security of supply.
the infrastructure of wires and cables around the country can be
divided into the distribution network and the transmission
network. Generators feed power into both the transmission and
distribution system, with larger units connecting at transmission
level and smaller units connecting at distribution level. the
transmission system is used to transport bulk power over long
distances. Power then flows into the distribution system, which is
used to bring power to customers’ premises.
eirGrid is responsible for the operation and development of the
transmission system and also oversees the maintenance of the
transmission network. in 2007 an all-island single electricity
Market (seM) was established, which has unified the market
between ireland and northern ireland. in 2009, eirGrid acquired
system operator northern ireland (soni), which operates
northern ireland’s national grid, further solidifying the electricity
relationship between the two jurisdictions.
esB networks is the asset owner of both the distribution and
transmission networks, and is responsible for the operation,
maintenance and development of the electricity distribution
network in ireland.
engIneerS Ireland 13
Irish electricity supply chain
GENERATION TRANSMISSION ANDDISTRIBUTION
SUPPLY
Competitive market Regulated monopoly Competitive market
Large fossil fuel generation
Microgeneration
Large andmediumrenewable and CHPgenerators
Domesticcustomers
TransmissionEirGrid
DistributionESB Networks
Business/commercial
2020Target
2005
reS-e target and Ireland’s current position:
National renewable: Target is 16%
2020Target
2005 2016 2016
RES-E contribution: Target is 40%
Distance to target 7.4%
8.6% achieved
Distance to target 17.3%
22.7% achieved
(Source: SEAI)
(Source: ESB)
The STaTe of Ireland 2016
14 engIneerS Ireland
What is the current status of Ireland’s electricitygeneration, transmission and fuel mix: Bw hile overall electricity in terms of achieving res-e is of an acceptable
standard, properly maintained and able to meet demand, investment
will be required over the next five years to ensure that ireland continues
on its path to likely meet its res-e targets in 2020, with particular
emphasis on introducing more renewable fuels into the mix.
Affordability is perhaps the highest priority when it comes to
electricity because of the importance of energy prices for
competitiveness and growth, plus the risk of hardship to low-income
households.
electricity in ireland is generated from a number of different sources.
the main fuel used to generate electricity is gas. However, through a
number of different schemes renewable electricity production is on the
increase and now represents almost a quarter of electricity generation,
primarily through wind. ireland’s fuel mix means that ireland’s ability to
generate electricity is high when it comes to economic cost, security of
supply and environmental impact.
the security of supply of ireland’s electricity is an imperative across the
energy sector given the severe economic and social consequences that
would result from a high-impact, low-probability event such as a total
interruption of electrical supply. the challenges for ireland’s electricity
generation sector include a high dependence on gas and the increasing
proportion of indigenous variable generation from renewables.
ireland’s electricity system has been bolstered in recent years, with
the east–west interconnector that links to mainland Britain allowing
for the import and export of power, thereby increasing competition
and facilitating renewables. Both the transmission and distribution
networks have received significant investment in recent years to
ensure that they are system ready for the increasing number of
renewables being introduced into the energy mix. eirGrid’s delivering
a secure sustainable electricity system (ds3) programme is
underway to address the challenges of integrating renewable
generation onto our power system through innovation in technology
application in consultation with market participants.
Advancements in telecommunications and information technology
have enabled the esB to develop the electricity network to operate to
meet customers’ new requirements. driven by the move to renewable
variable generation, the desire for customers to install local
distributed generation, the requirement for storage and the
electrification of heat and transport, network management has
changed profoundly in the last number of years. continued investment
has ensured that ireland’s electricity network is benchmarked
internationally as among the most advanced in the world.
it is fair to say that significant progress has been made on the
decarbonisation of ireland’s fuel mix and ireland is likely to meets its
2020 res-e target of 40%. this is a result of a consistent policy
approach ensuring investor confidence allied with incentives such as
the Accelerated capital Allowance (AcA) tax to encourage companies
to invest in energy-efficient equipment, and encourage businesses to
introduce renewables into their energy consumption. this has led to a
demand from customers to have ‘green’ energy in their electricity
supply or to be assured that the products they consume have come
from sustainable sources. As a result, businesses are beginning to
change their behaviours to incorporate renewable electricity into their
business models. Apple’s proposed data centre in Athenry is based on
its ability to use 100% renewable energy. similarly, facebook has
recently announced that its new data centre in Meath and
headquarters in dublin will be powered by wind energy. corporate
thought leaders with the level of influence on the general public that
Apple and facebook have can begin to influence the mindset of the
average irish consumer. interestingly, a recent iweA/iPsos MrBi
survey revealed that when consumers were asked “whether they would
prefer to power their homes with fossil fuels or renewable energy, with
both being a similar cost and level of service” that 86% chose
renewables compared to 9% who opted for fossil fuels. this clearly
indicates that there is an appetite for change among energy citizens.
the Public service obligation (Pso) levy charged to all electricity
customers has also played a huge role in incentivising investment in
renewable generation. However, the increasing levels of renewables
Gas 55.08%
■ 6.28%
■
Oil 0.1%
Net import 8%
Gas 44%26 TWh
Consumption 99%
Pumping 1%
Peat 10%Waste 0.5%
Other renewable 0.7%
Renewable hydro 2.7%
Wind 19%
Coal 15%
■ Coal 23.50%■ Gas 55.08%■ Net import 0.00%■ Other 6.28%■ Renewables 15.14%
O
fuel mix in Ireland 2014 average fuel mix on a typical day in Ireland – april 22, 2016
(Source: EirGrid) (Source: EirGrid)
engIneerS Ireland 15
A review of infrAstructure in irelAnd
in the generation mix, supported by the refit
scheme, have resulted in a decrease in the
wholesale price of electricity, which partially
offsets the cost of the Pso levy charged to
all electricity customers to fund the
scheme.
res-e has to date been driven by the
introduction of onshore wind energy
deployment and biomass combustion.
waste-to-energy also has a role to play
in achieving the renewable electricity
targets, as approximately 50% of the
electricity produced from waste is
considered to be renewable.
despite being in a prime location for ocean
energy capture, ireland does not currently have
any commercial-scale ocean, wave or tidal power
feeding into the national grid. ireland has, however, established a
positive reputation as a global testing ground for prototype renewable
technologies, and in the period beyond 2030 this could become a
significant source of renewable energy.
What does the future hold?while the electricity sector has made considerable advances, ireland
needs to continue on the journey from an electricity generation fleet
primarily based on fossil fuels to one that will essentially be zero
carbon and should include renewables, biomass and, potentially,
carbon capture and storage. in the longer term, as new and safer
nuclear technologies are developed, and as the nuclear waste issue is
satisfactorily resolved, this form of energy may need to be considered.
in the short to medium-term transition period, ireland will have to
adopt a pragmatic approach to the electricity
generation fuel mix and continue to rely to a
certain extent on fossil fuels while actively
promoting fuel switching from coal and
peat to gas. As ireland moves through
that transition period, low to zero
carbon generation technologies, which
provide electricity that can be
dispatched or stored at the same time
it is generated, may also be required,
along with energy storage for
renewables, increased interconnection
and demand side participation.
the targets for 2030 have yet to be fully
agreed but many projections show that society
will have to almost completely decarbonise the
electricity sector by 2050, with significant progress by
2030.
the seAi has clearly identified the need to accelerate our progress to
meet the 2020 carbon emissions and res-e targets. the deployment
of more wind capacity per annum is certainly desirable to help us to
achieve both these goals, alongside employing other clean energy
generation technology. indeed, the eirGrid capacity Generation
statement 2016 states that there would need to be an average of
about 300Mw of extra wind energy capacity installed per year to 2020
alone.
What actions do we need to take?the decarbonisation of ireland’s electricity is happening gradually and
inexorably, but the move away from the predominant use of fossil
fuels in transport and heating energy will have a major impact on
Edenderry Power Plant – an industry success story
each year edenderry Power Plant generates enough electricity for
the national grid to power the needs of above 150,000 households
across ireland. However, in addition to contributing to renewable
energy and carbon emission reduction targets, the power plant is an
important element in ireland’s energy infrastructure, not only in
terms of electricity generation, but also in terms of fuel security and
the provision of system services, including reactive power, inertia
and frequency control, which are crucial to the overall stability and
safe operation of the power system as levels of intermittent
renewable generation (wind) increase.
displacement of carbon-intensive fuels in electricity production,
such as coal and peat, with biomass,* have been shown to lead to
carbon savings of 1,200-1,450tco2, respectively, for every 1,000t of
biomass used, whereas displacement of fuels typical for the heating
sector, such as natural gas and kerosene, lead to carbon saving of
600-850tco2, respectively, for every 1,000t of biomass used. from a
carbon emissions savings point of view, it is more effective to utilise
biomass to displace peat or coal from the electricity-generating
sector than it is to utilise the biomass to displace diesel oil or
natural gas from the heating sector.
originally designed as a peat-fired power station, edenderry Power
Plant is currently the largest dispatchable renewable electricity
source on the island of ireland. it is a source of electricity that can
be dispatched at the instant it is needed. the 118Mw power station
utilises a modern fluidised bed boiler, which enables co-firing of
peat with a wide range of biomass fuels without the need of a major
capital investment into the boiler or the fuel handling system.
co-fuelling of peat with biomass at the power plant commenced in
2008, at a relatively modest rate of 2%, increasing to just under 30%
in 2014, with an aim of achieving a 37% co-firing rate in 2016. such a
high co-fuelling rate will result in carbon savings of over
350,000tco2.
* Biomass is organic matter derived from living, or recently living,
organisms. Biomass can be used as a source of energy and it most
often refers to plants or plant-based materials, which are not used
for food or feed, and are specifically called lignocellulosic biomass.
the security of supply of ireland’s electricity is an imperative across theenergy sector given the
severe economic and socialconsequences that wouldresult from a high-impact,low-probability event such
as a total interruption of electrical supply.
The STaTe of Ireland 2016
16 engIneerS Ireland
electricity generation and distribution in ireland.
capital expenditure will be required to build the
infrastructure necessary to supply the
energy to power a larger ev fleet, for
example, whereas a ‘smart grid’ network
is essential to manage ireland’s future
energy fuel mix and consumer
demand. continued investment in
additional network and smart network
strategies is essential to meet
customer needs so that they can
decide how they consume their
electricity. the network also needs
configuration to allow microgenerators to
sell power to energy companies, and the
impact of the greater electrification of heat and
transport may lead to capacity issues in urban areas,
but less so in rural areas, where increased capacity can be
accommodated without investment. landowner and customer
acceptance of the additional infrastructure which will be required to
move to a low-carbon society is also vital and is likely to need
considerable engagement.
As indigenous renewables such as wind, solar and wave are variable
and changeable, while tidal is variable but predictable, they will
require new demand-side management and technology
solutions, such as energy storage for both electrical
and thermal power, as renewable generation
increases. Additional interconnection with
other countries may also be required to
facilitate renewables, to augment and
diversify competition and security of
supply. the potential for increased
renewable generation in ireland
should be explored further, including
the use of different technologies as
they become increasingly available
and cost competitive.
with our island status, ireland’s energy
future is inextricably linked with northern
ireland, and the north–south interconnector
is imperative to further bolster security of supply
and reduce the cost to the consumer.
A smart grid is an electricity network that can cost-efficiently
integrate the behaviour and actions of all users connected to
it – generators, consumers and those that do both – in order
to ensure an economically efficient, sustainable power system
with low losses, high levels of quality, security of supply
and safety.
the sustainable energy Authority of ireland(seAi) has clearly identified
the need to accelerate our progress to meet
the 2020 carbon emissions and res-e targets.
engIneerS Ireland 17
A review of infrAstructure in irelAnd
HEATING/COOLING (THERMAL) RES-H
reS-h target and Ireland’s current position:
(Source: SEAI)
2020Target
2005
National renewable: Target is 16%
2020Target
2005 2016 2016
RES-H contribution: Target is 12%
Distance to target 7.4%
8.6% achieved
Distance to target 5.4%
6.6% achieved
res-H refers to thermal energy that is used for space, process and water
heating, cooling and also for cooking. the residential sector in ireland
accounts for the largest share of thermal energy usage at 44%, followed
by industry at 35%, services at 16% and agriculture at 4%.
What is the current status of Ireland’s heating/coolingsystems: Cthe vast majority of heating systems in ireland are domestic and poweredby fossil fuels (gas, oil and solid fuels) compared to other economies thathave developed renewable heating system technologies such aswood-burning boilers, air-source and geothermal ground-heat pumps orsolar water heaters. ireland also has the added challenge of eradicatingpeat harvesting in rural areas, which is often viewed as a ‘free’ resource.renewable energy accounted for 6.6% of thermal demand in 2014 and isgrowing steadily, but not quickly enough to achieve the 2020 targets. oil isthe dominant fuel, accounting for 41% of fuel inputs in 2014. with oilprices at an all-time low, this option of carbon-intensive, affordableheating/cooling is attractive. Persuading citizens and businesses alike toinvest in capital improvements to replace their oil-burning infrastructurewith new, energy-efficient, renewable fuel thermal alternatives willrequire large-scale financial incentives and education programmes fromGovernment and its agencies.
What does the future hold?electrification of heat, particularly using heat pumps, is an often stated
goal across europe. Heat pumps and thermal storage, coupled with smart
grid and distributed generation, could have a very positive impact on
reducing energy demand. However, peak heat demand in winter can be
five to six times greater than peak electricity demand. rapid transition to
even high-performing heat pumps without management and control of
energy infrastructure and household demand could stress parts of the
existing network. further capital investment in the network and
transmission systems will be required, and therefore impacts on the
long-term affordability of these solutions. conversely, if this transition is
managed appropriately, it could result in more efficient and cost-effective
usage of our renewable generation resources and electricity network
assets.
district heating is a goal of the new energy white Paper and is a proven
method of increasing energy efficiency. while it has been successfully
implemented in many other european countries, it has not been deployed
to any significant extent in ireland. one of the key advantages of district
heating networks are the efficient use of surplus heat from ‘low grade’
combined heat and power (cHP) plants, waste incineration plants, waste
heat from industrial processes, natural geothermal heat sources, and
fuels that are more easily used centrally, including renewables like wood
waste and residues. the development of district heating networks could
help to meet ireland’s renewable heat (res-H) target, help to reduce
ireland’s GHG emissions and external energy dependency.
significant savings can be achieved with the right applications, such as
high heat densities in towns and cities using biomass fuel. there are
opportunities for cHP systems that can, with proper thermal storage,
become part of the smarter electricity grid. However, heat distribution
networks are expensive to install and further assessment of the
economics is required. the business case tends to rely on guaranteed
uptake of end users before a project is underway, and such guarantees are
hard to secure. ireland should look at countries with similar climates, such
as denmark, to assess the potential for knowledge transfer in this area.
ireland’s dispersed rural population means that it is always going to be
more difficult and expensive to install district heating systems that
operate effectively and efficiently in rural areas.
According to the institute of international and european Affairs (iieA), an
estimated figure of €14 billion is required to bring the residential housing
stock up to an average Building energy rating (Ber) of c1, and for
Government targets to be met. specific technical measures include
building insulation retrofits of wall, roof and floor insulation,
energy-efficient glazing and draught proofing alongside heating/cooling
system replacements with heating controls, heat pumps or solar water
heating, energy-efficient lighting, and more efficient household
appliances and electronics. the technical improvements towards
The STaTe of Ireland 2016
18 engIneerS Ireland
more energy-efficient and low-carbon renewable fuels need to be
coupled with behavioural measures that include reducing the target
temperature by one degree celsius, such as turning off heating in
unused rooms, turning off lights when not in use, installing a
low-flow shower head and air-drying rather than tumble-drying
clothes. small, targeted behavioural changes can all contribute to
increased energy efficiency and improved comfort levels for
householders as a deep retrofit will naturally lead to reduced energy
consumption. we have seen recent tv ads encouraging householders
to switch off and save.
However, uptake of energy efficiency in the residential sector is likely
to be low without additional intervention. the seAi has identified a
number of potential and existing interventions including regulation,
pay as you save (PAys), information campaigns and direct financial
support. PAys is a type of residential retrofit financing scheme
currently under consideration in ireland. A number of research
papers were produced examining the PAys concept, which formed a
starting point for the Better energy financing (Bef) project. Bef is
intended to overcome the financial barrier in the residential sector by
providing accessible finance to householders in ireland. there is
currently an €800,000 capital budget set aside for a suite of project
trials in 2016. essentially, the task of Bef is to identify the level of
cost at which energy efficiency becomes acceptable to a critical mass
of the population, and then identify the nature, and extent, of the
subsidy required to make that level of cost available.
What actions do we need to take?radical changes are needed to the vast majority of ireland’s thermal
technology, which must include switching households to a fuel source
that requires a total retrofit of their heating system. the role of Bef is
critical to the success of this switch to ensure that the final solution is
affordable for the householder when it is combined with energy
efficiency measures.
A blend of gas and electricity is needed to meet the short to
medium-term res-H targets. one recommendation is to electrify the
900,000 homes that are not connected to the gas network, and which
use solid fuel or oil for heat. Priority should be given to electrifying
the heating systems in these homes through a funded Government
programme. not only would this immediately contribute to the
heating target, but it would also benefit the 20% carbon emissions
obligation if renewables are used in the electricity generation.
However, this has to be done in conjunction with changes to how
electric domestic emissions are treated in the Building regulations to
facilitate adoption of all available electric heating solutions. while
noting that there have been very positive developments regarding the
treatment of heat pumps in recent months, the Building regulations
continue to be a barrier to the adoption of electric storage heating for
apartment dwellings.
of the remaining 700,000 homes that are connected to the gas
network, 100% of these homes could be switched from natural gas to
biogas with no need to change the gas distribution infrastructure.
However, biogas is produced from anaerobic digestion and currently
there are only six plants in ireland, compared to 26 in northern
ireland. some of the reasons for the low level of plants in ireland
include a complex planning and licensing system, with eight different
permissions required, grid connection costs, unattractive electricity
tariffs, financing issues and uncertainty in waste policy. this is an
area that has the potential to grow, with the help of policy
development and financial incentives to support the industry. it is
estimated that just replacing 20% of natural gas with biogas could
allow 100% of domestic customers and up to 15% of industrial and
commercial customers to operate on biogas, contributing to the
res-H target.
As well as supporting ireland’s achievement of its renewable targets,
development of anaerobic digestion plants assists with the
implementation of ireland’s waste policy.
Power-to-gas is another option to replace 20% of natural gas
whereby surplus renewable electricity is converted into hydrogen gas
% OF ENERGY FLOW % OF FINAL ENERGY USE
6.5%
41.5%
38%
8%
5%
1%
44%
35%
16%
4%
1%
Renewables
Oil
Natural gas
Coal
Peat
Wastes
Residential
Industry
Services
Agriculture
Lost in refining
energy flow – Thermal uses 2014
(Source: SEAI)
engIneerS Ireland 19
A review of infrAstructure in irelAnd
by rapid response electrolysis and is subsequently injected into the
gas distribution network. ireland already owns a vast energy storage
infrastructure in the form of its existing gas
transmission and distribution pipeline. it is likely
that the shift to renewable heating will have to
be incentivised in order to change consumer
behaviour on both the generation and
demand side. A firm policy is needed to
drive these changes such as
feed-in-tariffs (fits) similar to how the
Pso/refit scheme has driven the
introduction of renewables in
electricity generation. the renewable
Heat incentive (rHi) has been shown to
drive rapid deployment of new
technologies, for example, solar and
biomass heat in the uK and fits-developed
solar photovoltaic (Pv) electricity in Germany
and spain. However, lessons need to be learned
about how incentives can skew the market and provide
unsustainable market growth. it is important to set levels at
moderate rates of return, with the guaranteed tariff reducing each
year. details around the rHi need to be put in place by the irish
Government as promised by 2016 for producers and consumers of
renewable heat.
the energy white Paper states that the proposed rHi should
incentivise the change to renewable heating for the equivalent of an
additional 200 large industrial sites or 2,000 large services sector
buildings or 300,000 residential dwellings between now and 2020 or
some combination of the three. As industry emits more co2 and is
more likely to realise the business benefits that can be made through
energy efficiency as well as switching to alternative fuels, then the
focus should primarily be on business to lead the change.
waste-to-energy would benefit from inclusion in the rHi to
incentivise businesses to recycle as much waste as possible.
As ireland cannot meet its decarbonisation ambitions without
tackling heating in the residential sector, a domestic rHi
is a necessary part of the strategy to incentivise
homeowners to undertake energy retrofit
projects.
for industrial locations that are off the
natural gas network, the implementation
of biomass solutions, like those used by
Astellas in Killorglin, would assist with
increasing energy efficiency, achieving
the renewables target and reducing
carbon emissions.
the Government should provide
leadership on this and prioritise
sweeping changes in the public sector to
support a consumer education programme,
leading by example. ireland’s hospitals, which
are among the most intensive energy users, account
for around 500,000 tonnes of carbon emissions annually,
and in 2014 were responsible for 21% of total energy consumption in
the public sector. the 2020 target for hospitals is just less than half
this at 11.8%, which means significant inroads will have to be made to
achieve this in the next four years.
Mandatory energy audits have been an essential driver in making
energy efficiency visible within the industrial sector. once energy
becomes a visible cost to production, companies are prompted to
develop methodologies to reduce unnecessary or wasted energy by
optimising their processes.
the requirements to undertake energy audits should be widened to
incorporate small to medium-sized businesses as well as retail
centres, similar to those introduced in the public sector and for large
commercial enterprises under the eu energy efficiency regulations
2014.
Astellas – an industry success story
Astellas ireland ltd operates a modern pharmaceutical finishing
facility in Killorglin, co. Kerry, where it employs 350 people. the
facility serves the worldwide market as the production base for the
formulation and packaging of anti-rejection drugs used in organ
transplant surgery.
Astellas has a longstanding commitment to the energy agenda.
Joining the seAi’s energy Agreements programme in 2005, the site
has been certified to a variety of standards since 2007, with the
most recent one being the international standard for energy
Management – iso 50001. Astellas places a high value on
sustainability and corporate social responsibility and as a result in
2010, the company began to examine alternatives to oil as the main
source of energy for the plant.
Planning permission was approved for the installation of a new
352m2 utilities building comprising a 1.6Mw biomass boiler and
ancillary biomass fuel store, which came on stream in 2012.
Astellas sources its wood chip from predominantly local coillte
forest resources in Kerry, supporting local jobs and helping to
develop a wood supply market. other renewable projects saw the
erection of an on-site wind turbine for electricity supply in 2012,
and the installation of a solar water heating system in 2014.
in december 2015, Astellas was generating 62% of all energy
required for the site through renewable energy.
the on-site wind turbine generates 20% of the company’s
electricity and the wood chip boiler supplies 95% of the company’s
thermal needs. the installation of a biomass heating system has
helped Astellas to secure major contracts from international
clients that prioritise world-class environmental credentials in the
companies they partner with.
Astellas used to burn 700,000 litres of oil annually for thermal
energy. By switching to a more energy-efficient thermal system, it
reduced co2 emissions by 92%, reduced overall manufacturing
costs, secured the company’s sustainability and increased its
competitiveness.
the task of Bef is to identifythe level of cost at which
energy efficiency becomesacceptable to a critical massof the population, and then
identify the nature, and extent,of the subsidy required
to make that level of cost available.
TRANSPORT (RES-T)
ireland’s obligation under the eu renewable energy directive is to replace
transport fuel with 10% renewable energy by 2020. transport energy
demand, which is responsible for a third of total energy use in ireland,
grew by 4% in 2014. over half of all transport energy consists of diesel
(56%) and currently biofuels account for only 3.1% of the fuel mix in
transport (or 5.2% when the weightings for double certificates are applied
in accordance with the directive).
What is the current status of Ireland’s transport energy infrastructure: Croad-based transport equates to 80.6% of all journeys, with private cars
making up the majority of that figure at 55.8%. there are about two million
private cars in ireland and it is the preferred mode of transport for the
majority of irish people as 75% of all journeys are taken by car. this ratio
increases outside of dublin to 77% and drops in the city to 61%, with
public transport and other sustainable modes used more in the capital.
res-t reached 5.2% in 2014 and this was mostly through the use of
biofuels mixed with diesel and petrol. the ev charge point network
currently meets demand, with evidence to suggest that the majority of ev
owners charge their cars at home overnight, thereby contributing to the
electricity demand profile, leading to more efficient use of the generation
assets. despite a €5,000 subsidy, low road tax rates and a vehicle
registration tax (vrt) exemption, there are only 1,700 evs registered in
ireland. this is 0.9% of the total car fleet. in norway, with a similar
population to ireland but a sparser population spread per square
kilometre – 14 versus ireland’s 67 – the passenger car market share for
plug-in electric passenger cars is 22%. compressed natural gas (cnG),
which emits 22% less co2 than diesel, is an alternative fuel for ireland’s
truck and inter-city bus fleet but the only refuelling point that currently
exists is at Gas networks ireland’s cork office where it has conducted
trials with Bus Éireann.
dublin Bus applied for funding from the national transport Authority in
2014 to trial three hybrid fuel buses over a three-year period but the
request was declined because no funds were available from the
department of transport. Hybrids are considered ideal for stop-start
driving conditions in cities and, as well as fuel efficiencies through the use
of renewable energy, they can contribute to the overall reduction of co2
and noise in urban centres.
Double certification
A fundamental aspect of the Biofuels obligation scheme (Bos) isthat it is a certificate-based system in which a single Bos certificaterepresents one litre of biofuels. for sustainable biofuels producedfrom first-generation feed stocks, for example vegetable oil, sugaror starch, one certificate is awarded for each litre placed on themarket. two Bos certificates per litre may be awarded for advancedbiofuels, which are typically produced from wastes and residues.the obligated parties have relied on double certification to meettheir biofuels obligations in previous years: in 2014, over 60% of thebiofuels placed on the market received two Bos certificates per litre.the implication of counting advanced biofuels twice is that thevolume of biofuels placed on the market is reduced (see graph).
The STaTe of Ireland 2016
20 engIneerS Ireland
reS-T target and Ireland’s current position:
(Source: SEAI)
2020Target
2005
National renewable: Target is 16%
2020Target
2005 2016 2016
RES-T contribution: Target is 10%
Distance to target 7.4%
8.6% achieved
Distance to target 4.8%
5.2% achieved
2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015
8%
7%
6%
5%
4%
3%
2%
1%
0%
% Bio (by volume) % Bio (by certificate) Obligation
Source: Byrne O’Cleirigh
engIneerS Ireland 21
A review of infrAstructure in irelAnd
What does the future hold?the use of biofuels mixed with petrol and diesel will continue to play a
major part in reducing co2 emissions in the future. the current mix is 6%
under the Biofuels obligation scheme (Bos) and is expected to increase to
8% on January 1, 2017. However, the maximum realistic mix for petrol and
diesel in ireland is unlikely to be above 10% and so the potential impact of
this solution is limited in the longer term. evs have the potential to make a
real impact over time, although uptake is slow and the Government’s
white Paper has revised the target for evs down from 10% of the total
fleet (approximately 194,400 cars) by 2020 to just 50,000 or 2.5%.
the question of fees for evs to access public charging infrastructure is
currently under review by the commission for energy regulation (cer).
fees could well prove a deterrent for those who already own this mode of
transport to remain with this type of vehicle and for new entrants to
choose this as a future option despite grants on offer. the seAi’s research
into behaviour will prove significant in identifying the barriers to
consumers availing of clean electric technology for their transport needs.
A recent report by Bloomberg new energy finance looked at the
technology and concluded that as battery prices fell by 35% in 2015, they
are on a trajectory to make unsubsidised evs as affordable as their fossil
fuel counterparts in the next six years. Bloomberg predicts that by 2040,
35% of new cars worldwide will have a plug. the cnG network of fuel
refilling points is set to roll out in 2016, and will build on the existing gas
transmission and distribution systems, which bodes well for affordability.
However, from a security perspective, as the network is yet to be built out
there are no immediate gains to be made from this more environmentally
friendly fuel mix. there are currently no plans to electrify the intercity rail
network and as rail energy equates to just 0.9% of the primary energy
consumption for transport, bigger wins would be generated from focusing
on the private car network.
this report strongly advocates the accelerated move to renewable energy
modes of transport, particularly where the renewable energy is generated
or produced from indigenous resources. However, it is clear that in the
short to medium term, ireland will continue to rely on imported petroleum
for much of our transport. the infrastructural capability to produce refined
petroleum products on the island of ireland is of key importance in the
context of the security of supply element of the trilemma as we transition
towards a carbon-free society over the coming years. not having refinery
capability will effectively mean that in an oil supply crisis, ireland would be
reduced to sourcing our transport requirements in the refined product
market and not the wider crude oil market. it is in this context that it is
recommended that the infrastructural capability to produce refined
petroleum products to serve these needs be retained.
What actions do we need to take?if the resolution of this target rests on achieving significant purchases of
evs by irish citizens, then awareness, advocacy and influencing opinions
should be the primary focus for Government in the next four years. this
should also include soft incentives such as the use of bus corridors for
evs, revisiting the registration tax and exploring other financial incentives.
the affordability of the solution is also a factor, and with prices of evs set
to fall to more competitive levels in the future, evs should form a bigger
part of the fuel mix in transport.
currently the choice of evs is limited in the consumer’s mind, though the
range has become more extensive in recent years. the majority of vehicles
available are small in size, lower in horsepower and limited in range, with
the ability to travel an average of 150km before needing a charge.
However, the technology is moving on, with new models offering real
choice in the mid-price saloon marketplace. these models can offer an
improved driving performance and a driving range closer to 320km. tesla
and other manufacturers are also offering choice in the luxury
marketplace and these may help to change the perception of evs in the
eyes of consumers. leadership by Government and the public sector is
necessary to change the attitude of the irish public to evs. As the majority
2015 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18 ‘19 ‘20 ‘21 ‘22 ‘23 ‘24 ‘25 ‘26 ‘27 ‘28 ‘29 ‘30 ‘31 ‘32 ‘33 ‘34 ‘35 ‘36 ‘37 ‘38 ‘39 ‘40
500 million vehicles
400
300
200
100
0
� Projected annual sales � cumulative sales
By 2022 electric vehicles (evs) will cost the same as their internal combustion counterparts. that’s the point of lift-off for sales.
Sources: Data compiled by Bloomberg New Energy Finance, Marklines
Electric vehicles would account for 35% of all new vehicle sales.
The rise of electric cars
The STaTe of Ireland 2016
22 engIneerS Ireland
of the ministerial fleet is privately owned by individual ministers, they
should be encouraged to replace their existing fossil fuel-powered cars
with hybrids or evs. irish state agency car, van and bus fleets should also
be updated accordingly to electric, cnG and hybrid modes, respectively,
while public procurement processes for Government contracts involving
transport should include key performance indicators linked to renewable
energy. there is clearly a need for public transport to be more accountable
in the delivery of the res-t targets.
A comprehensive national strategy needs to be put in place to create the
necessary infrastructure for ev adoption to thrive in the short term. this
would involve further incentives to encourage consumers to switch from
fossil fuels to evs in parallel with an education campaign to advise the
active citizen on how his or her choice of fuel impacts on the global
environment, climate change and flooding.
incentives could include the obligatory reservation of charging spaces for
evs by local authorities, reduced parking fees, preferential access to
restricted areas, reduced tolls and the provision of charging facilities in
new buildings. similar measures have been proven to grow ev numbers
rapidly in other countries. the cnG network should be rolled out as
planned to enable the van and bus fleets to switch from diesel to a fuel
that emits less GHGs. Government tenders should specify the types of fuel
that private service operators must use in their fuel mix and grants should
be offered to encourage the private sector to invest in cnG-powered
vehicles. Measures such as the Green Bus fund included in the dcccnr
energy white Paper should also be extended to freight transport to create
a Green freight transport fund. the continued roll-out of cost-effective
public transport should also be prioritised on urban and inter-city routes,
providing an alternative to the large number of journeys by
single-occupancy private car.
Carbon emissionsfrom 1990 to 2014, energy-related co2 emissions increased by 17% – an
average of 0.7% per annum. transport recorded the largest increase at
120% (3.3% per annum) over the period. transport’s share of
energy-related co2 emissions was 37% in 2014. the residential sector in
ireland consists of an estimated 1.7 million homes and, after agriculture
and transport, is the third largest emitter of energy-related GHG
emissions.
As previously stated, the three energy targets of improved efficiency,
increased renewable fuel sources in final consumption and a reduction in
carbon emissions are interlinked and mutually dependent. with the
introduction of more renewables, then GHG emissions will fall. However,
this report has quite clearly identified that not enough measures are on
track to increase renewables in the fuel mix for heat (res-H) and
transport (res-t). similarly, a lack of buy-in to the energy efficiency target
means that ireland is a long way from achieving the 20% obligation.
A bus route that is entirely served by volvo’s quiet, fuel-efficient and
practically emission-free electric hybrid buses is now a reality in
stockholm. A total of eight electric hybrid buses deployed on route 73
pass through the central areas of the swedish capital.
volvo’s electric hybrid buses replaced all of the existing fleet on route
73, which runs between ropsten and the Karolinska institute in
central stockholm. the driver for the city to introduce electrified bus
traffic was because it is a cost-efficient way of reducing the problems
of poor air quality and noise. the buses assist with improving the
environment without the need for large investments in new
infrastructure. volvo’s electric hybrid buses operate quietly and free of
emissions on renewable electricity for seven of the route’s slightly
more than eight kilometre total distance, and the batteries are
quick-charged for only six minutes at the terminus at each end of the
route. As a complement, the buses also have a small diesel engine
that is powered by biodiesel. compared with conventional buses, the
electric hybrids provide considerable environmental gains. the total
energy consumption is 60% lower. climate-impacting emissions are
reduced by 90%, since the buses use biodiesel and wind power. the
noise level during electrical operation is at the same level as ordinary
conversational tone.
services using electric hybrid buses in stockholm comprise a
demonstration project conducted by volvo Buses, sl (stockholm
Public transport) and energy provider vattenfall. it is part-financed by
the eu through the Zeeus (Zero emission urban Bus system) project,
in which more than 40 companies and organisations are participating.
following the initial demonstration project, which will continue until
the end of 2016, the intention is to continue using the electric hybrids
in commercial operation. volvo’s electric hybrids have also been used
in commercial service in Hamburg, Germany, since december 2014.
Stockholm and electric hybrid buses – an industry success story
A review of infrAstructure in irelAnd
engIneerS Ireland 23
OTHER CONSIDERATIONS
Energy technologiesfor ireland, there is no single silver bullet. the adoption of different
technologies will depend on the maturity and relative cost of the
technology, bearing the affordability question in mind. this report
has endeavoured to recommend actions that are achievable with
current technologies and resources available to ireland today.
However, ireland needs to stop closing the door on technologies that
may have to be considered in the future and remain open to those
that have yet to be developed.
the recently published energy white Paper sets a very clear
direction for energy policy, in line with ireland's commitments under
the Paris Agreement: "our vision of a low-carbon energy system
means that greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from the energy sector
will be reduced by between 80% and 95% compared to 1990 levels,
by 2050, and will fall to zero or below by 2100”.
in order to achieve this, a major transition is required in how we
meet our energy needs in a sustainable, secure and affordable way
across the transport, heating and electricity sectors. in fact, this
transition is already underway. it is widely recognised that new
technologies, and the further development of existing technologies,
will be required in order to effect this transition, and to this end
governments, institutions and enterprises across the world are
committing significant resources to energy research and innovation.
for example, the eu strategic energy technology (set) Plan seeks to
accelerate knowledge development, technology transfer and
deployment of low-carbon energy technologies and systems in order
to achieve the eu's 2030 energy and climate change goals and to
enable the transition to a low-carbon economy by 2050. the eu set
Plan is underpinned by the eu's Horizon 2020 €70 billion funding
programme for research and development, of which €6 billion is
earmarked for non-nuclear energy research.
ireland has developed a diverse and vibrant energy research
capability, built up over many years and across a range of
institutions. Particular progress has been made over the past
decade, due in part to good policy decisions such as the initiation of
the charles Parsons Awards and the strategy report of the irish
energy research council. the energy research mandate given to
science foundation ireland (sfi), including the current proposed
large biomass research centre, plus the establishment and funding
of the international energy research centre in cork, the energy
research institute in ucd and the Marine and renewable energy
ireland (Marei) centre, is critical to developing further technologies
in the renewable space. the work of the seAi and other state
agencies, and the proactive response of industry and academia to
these policy decisions, is also a major contributor.
the role of energy research in facilitating ireland's transition to a
low-carbon future is highlighted in the energy white Paper. the
Paper refers to the forthcoming publication of the report of the
energy research strategy Group (ersG), which will include a
roadmap comprising areas of focus to 2050, while also identifying
the key elements of a world-class energy system capable of
addressing the challenges of energy security, sustainability and
competitiveness.
Added to those research areas of focus listed in the white Paper are
two additional areas where ireland should adopt a 'watching brief'.
these are carbon capture and storage (ccs), and developments in
nuclear energy.
in relation to ccs, this technology has the potential to substantially
reduce carbon emissions, and it features strongly in low-carbon
scenarios developed by the ieA and other bodies. However,
depending on the energy required to convert the co2 gas into a
storable and transportable form, it could be expensive and its
utilisation may reduce significantly the overall process efficiency of
A. Active consumers at the centre of the energy system A.1 social and behavioural aspects of the energy transition, including: i) energy
efficiency; ii) transport; iii) social acceptance of energy infrastructure; and, iv)
approaches to societal engagement.
B. demand focus B.1 energy efficiency
c. system optimisation c.1 electricity
c.2 Gas/water
c.3 smart cities/communities
c.4 integrated energy systems modelling
d. secure, cost-effective, clean and competitive supply d.1 wind/solar energy
d.2 Bioenergy
d.3 ocean energy
d.4 sustainable transport systems
d.5 sustainable heating/cooling
Main research areas of focus to 2050.
The STaTe of Ireland 2016
24 engIneerS Ireland
the power plant or industrial application to which it is applied. A
prerequisite for the large-scale deployment of ccs is, therefore, the
demonstration of the technical and economic feasibility of existing
technologies, together with a comprehensive research programme
to reduce costs, increase efficiencies across the whole ccs
technology chain, and to optimise the technology for use in all
carbon-intensive industrial sectors.
in relation to nuclear energy, the eu energy roadmap shows that
this will remain an important part of the eu power generation mix in
the years to come. research and development in this area
internationally is focusing on the development of new fission reactor
technologies, on enhancing safety across the full nuclear power
value chain, and in the development of new and smaller modular
reactor concepts. A particular ongoing focus is the development of
sustainable solutions for the management of nuclear waste. in the
longer term, fusion technology is seen as a potentially attractive
energy solution for clean and large-scale electricity generation
towards the end of the century. ireland is one of a number of
countries that does not have nuclear power in its domestic electricity
mix. At some point in the future, as the transition to a low-carbon
future gathers momentum, and as these new technologies develop a
record of successful, commercial and safe operation, it is
conceivable that nuclear power could become an attractive option for
ireland.
the white Paper also highlights the enterprise opportunities that flow
from a vibrant energy research and innovation ecosystem. ireland is
developing a reputation as a world-class location for research across
a number of sectors, including life sciences and information and
communications technology, with many global companies actively
engaged in research activities in ireland. the energy research sector
has the potential to achieve similar success – this is recognised in the
ambition to establish ireland as an 'energy innovation Hub'.
‘Soft infrastructure’ireland’s ambitions to reach the renewable energy targets need
support from the legislature. High investment costs are incurred by
developers in preparing planning applications for major
infrastructure with very little certainty of the planning outcome.
currently, the application fee for a strategic infrastructure
development (sid) is €100,000 and there are other additional costs,
such as preparing environmental impact statements. there needs to
be a more unified and integrated approach to the regulations, as well
as more clarification. for example, in the case of an upstream
pipeline coming ashore, we have the foreshore Act, the strategic
infrastructure Act, section 40 of the Gas Act 1976, that is consent to
construct and consent to operate, and a safety Permit under the
Petroleum (exploration and extraction) safety (Pees) Acts 2010
and 2015. these consents are determined by different Government
departments or agencies. one Government agency should take
the lead.
delays to projects, including sid projects, mean that the legislation
is falling short of its ambition. when it comes to planning appeals
and the strategic infrastructure Act, timelines are aspirational.
there should be fixed deadlines. there are no timelines for other
consents. obtaining a foreshore licence is a very time-consuming
process.
eu regulation 347 of 2013 introduced a consenting regime for
trans-european energy networks (ten-e) projects, which are
designated as ‘projects of common interest’. the overall duration
must be no more than 42 months, with the consent stage taking no
more than 18 months. where multiple consents are required, the
regulation requires each member state to nominate an agency to
co-ordinate the consents. for projects in ireland, which are not
‘projects of common interest’ and which require multiple consents, a
co-ordinating agency should be appointed.
in relation to nuclear energy, the eu
energy roadmap shows that this will remain
an important part of the eu power generation
mix in the years to come.
What is the current state of infrastructure?
A recent report by the european commission (digital economy and
society index) ranks ireland 8th in the eu for a range of digital integration
issues. However, this rate of growth in the last year is behind the average
growth across the eu, placing ireland in a cluster of countries deemed to
be ‘lagging ahead’. in the mobile category ireland is ranked 7th of the eu
28 at 67.7%, ahead of the eu average of 62.4%. ireland has significantly
improved its performance in the connectivity dimension in the last year,
jumping from 16th to 13th place.
there has been convergence of technologies during the last five years –
cable tv providers now provide broadband and traditional telecoms
companies now deliver tv content. Quad play bundles (voice, mobile voice,
data and video) are now commonplace in the market and the focus has
shifted to content now that the required broadband speeds are more
prevalent.
Broadband€2bn plus has been invested in the network infrastructure by industry
over the past four years. industry anticipates that 1.6m homes will have
access to high-speed broadband provided by commercial operators in the
near future: approximately 70% of all premises in ireland. international
connectivity has improved, with the landing of transatlantic cables to both
cork and Mayo in 2015, which lessen the dependency on dublin-based
connectivity. Achievements include advances in fibre-to-the-home
connectivity, which barely existed in ireland five years ago. ireland had the
seventh fastest broadband speed in the world in 2014, ahead of the uK and
Germany, but dropped to 12th in europe in 2015 and 23rd in the world.
Broadband in rural Irelandthe remaining 30% of premises not served by broadband represent the
target for state intervention. the national Broadband Plan (nBP)
procurement process was initiated in december 2015, to select the
contractor(s) for the deployment of this infrastructure, with construction
expected to start in 2017. this initiative is likely to have a major impact on
the market as a whole.
Mobile infrastructurethe infrastructure supporting mobile services has been upgraded, driven
by the roll-out of 4G networks by all mobile operators to serve data users
and the need to reduce the operating costs of the networks through site
consolidation and the sharing of towers and masts.
What does the future hold?since 2010, worldwide internet data demand has grown by over 40% year
on year. the telecommunications infrastructure is challenged, with
ever-increasing demands on the networks by consumers who demand
that both business and lifestyle requirements are met. services are now
expected to be always available irrespective of location.
the future includes the adaptation of the network for 5G services, with
research already underway to facilitate these requirements.
What actions do we need to take?the continued investment by commercial operators is fundamental to
increasing ireland’s competitiveness in the years ahead.
the implementation of the nBP intervention is a cornerstone to ensuring
that rural ireland gets access to high-speed broadband and enabling
digital services in all homes throughout ireland.
Mobile networks need to ensure that high-quality services are made
available for traditional services, as well as enhancing the services
available for mobile broadband users. Additional spectrum is likely to be
made available in the near term and this needs to be harnessed wisely to
improve the performance and capacity of the networks. in addition, the
continued roll-out of the 4G networks is an essential enhancement to the
communications infrastructure nationally.
COMMUNICATIONS
OVERALL GRADE12-MONTHn Award the National Broadband Plan (NBP)intervention to a contractor(s) and confirmthe deployment schedule nationally
n Continue the roll-out of the 4G mobilenetworks nationally and protect thequality of traditional mobile services suchas voice
n continue to reduce service costs whenrates and speeds are not equal inrural/urban areas
FIVE-YEARn Roll-out of affordable high-speedbroadband services nationally
n Ireland’s national broadbandinfrastructure should be in the top five of European league tables in terms ofavailability, uptake and speed
n Continue to research and develop thenetwork in anticipation of 5G services
RECOMMENDATIONS FOR 2016
B
engIneerS Ireland 25
A review of infrAstructure in irelAnd
Ireland’s communications network is responsible for saving lives, supporting business as well as providingcitizens with access to entertainment and social media. Our voice and data networks are critical to oursmarter living modes.
The STaTe of Ireland 2016
26 engIneerS Ireland
TRANSPORT
SECTOR GRADE
Roads: Motorways B
Roads: Other routes D
Sustainable transport D
Rail C
Airports B
Sea ports C
OVERALL GRADE
12-MONTHn Progress funding mechanisms for delayednational road projects countrywide
n Improve road management systems inconjunction with increased roadmaintenance funds
n Progress development of second runwayat Dublin Airport
n Develop solution for North Dublin andDublin Airport rail
n Continue to invest in improved facilities forpedestrians and cyclists, in particular inthe major cities
FIVE-YEARn Accelerate the prioritisation of investmentin infrastructure projects to increaseIreland’s competitiveness and address theunemployment challenge
n Progress the planning process for portredevelopments in Cork and Galway
n Agree standards for data formats andcommunication protocols for integratedtraffic systems to enable informationsharing
n Continue to work towards the developmentof an integrated, frequent and reliablenetwork of public transport services in ourcities, including integrating farestructures across bus and rail modes
RECOMMENDATIONS FOR 2016
C
Developing a transport infrastructure that meets the requirements of Irish society and the Irish economyis essential to the future prosperity of the State. Critical to this is an integrated approach to road, rail, airand sea transport.
engIneerS Ireland 27
A review of infrAstructure in irelAnd
Roadslimited investment during the economic downturn has left national
roads badly in need of investment. the motorway network is currently
able to cope with levels of traffic, but the M50 has started to suffer
congestion due to increased traffic volumes.
Beyond the motorways, ireland’s remaining road network is in very
variable condition and is not capable of meeting usual demand,
certainly not to an international level. Austere budgetary measures have
seen the road maintenance programmes significantly reduced to
unsustainable levels. reduced budgets mean that national and local
authorities have insufficient resources to maintain their road networks
in acceptable condition.
Public, integrated and sustainable transportA holistic approach is required when it comes to transport and energy,
given ireland’s dispersed population and the need for a private
passenger car fleet.
investment in urban cycle routes, bus corridors, hybrid/electric buses
and pedestrian facilities are critical to improve ireland’s urban spaces,
making them pollution and noise free as well as contributing to the eu
renewable energy directive to increase energy efficiency, use more
renewable fuel sources and reduce carbon emissions.
Railireland’s heavy rail network is certainly fit for purpose but increasing
numbers of commuters and tourists will put a strain on certain urban
routes. the announcement of the dArt extension to Balbriggan,
Hazelhatch and Maynooth, along with Metro north, is welcomed. A light
rail network in cork should be examined. the extension of the luAs
lines is welcome. However, a longer term plan for future tram lines is
needed instead of the current ‘stop-start’ approach.
Airportsireland’s international air connectivity is critical for tourism and
business travel. irish airports are well maintained and the authorities
continue to invest to maintain the safety and security of the
infrastructure.
the announcement of the construction of a new runway at dublin
Airport, on hold since 2007, is an indication of ireland’s growing
economic confidence. existing regional airports should be maintained
because of their importance for the economic development of ireland
outside of dublin.
Sea portsireland’s commercial sea ports are vital for most exports and imports,
as well as for the tourism sector. furthermore, our marine
infrastructure includes both large and small fishing harbours and small
leisure harbours. the Port of Galway is currently awaiting the
green light to commence expansion of a new deep-water port and
reclaim land from Galway Bay under the strategic infrastructure Act.
the connectivity, particularly for freight, of our seaports to the overall
transport network needs to be prioritised.
The STaTe of Ireland 2016
28 engIneerS Ireland
The quality of Ireland’s drinking water is underpinned by investment in water treatment plants, and the qualityof the receiving aquatic environment is underpinned by investment in wastewater treatment plants.
WATER SUPPLY ANDWASTEWATER
year
S75
1,600 mIllIonlITreS of
drInKIng waTer
SECTOR GRADEWater supply C
Wastewater D
OVERALL GRADE
12-MONTHn Ensure that Ireland preserves a public water utility as thebest way of ensuring that the water industry is brought to thestandards required by a modern economy
n Ensure that adequate funding is available to allow the utilityto meet its objectives, including eliminating boil waternotices and reducing the number of supplies at risk
n Provide investment in infrastructure capacity to supportcritical housing needs and employment growth
FIVE-YEARn Place an immediate focus oneliminating current boil waternotices and ensure that the risk offurther notices is addressed by 2021
n Progress construction of requiredwastewater infrastructure so as toachieve compliance with the UrbanWaste Water Treatment Directiveand eliminate the 45 untreateddischarges by 2021
RECOMMENDATIONS FOR 2016
Water supply� irish water supplies drinking water to 3.3 million people/80% of the
population
� 63,000km of water pipelines have been mapped
� 1,600 million litres of drinking water are produced daily
� Average age of an irish water main: 75 years; average age of an eu
water main: 36 years
� 47% of treated water is lost through leakage – almost twice the level of
the uK
� 119 water treatment plants on the ePA’s remedial action list (rAl) (Q1
2016), supplying 800,000 people, need investment
� over half of the 900 water supplies have one or more deficiency and
are below the industry standard
� 29,165 customers are currently under boil water notices
� nine new water treatment plants and 19 major upgrades to existing
water treatment plants are to be implemented by 2016
Wastewater� 70% of the population is served by public sewerage schemes, operated
by irish water
� wastewater infrastructure consists of 1,100 treatment plants and
25,000km of sewers
� there are 45 locations where sewage is being discharged untreated or
with preliminary treatment only
� 156 wastewater treatment plants are overloaded and do not meet the
required standards
� Major and extensive upgrades to the wastewater networks are
required to meet eu directive standards
What does the future hold?irish water’s Business Plan, published in october 2015, has identified a
€5.5bn capital investment need up to 2021, and the investment required to
address all known deficits is estimated to be €13bn.
for water and wastewater, the most critical item at present is the future of
ireland’s public water and wastewater utility – irish water – and resolving
the question of the funding model that will ensure that the required
investment levels are met.
Prod
uced
daIly
D
average age of IrISh waTer maInS
water quality deals with water in the natural environment – lakes, rivers,
groundwater, and coastal bays and estuaries. A major programme – the
river basin management plans – is underway to meet the objectives of the
eu’s water framework directive, which is designed to protect all
high-status waters, prevent further deterioration of all waters, and restore
degraded surface and ground waters to good status.
Flood management� 300 areas for further assessment (AfAs) have been identified,
including 90 coastal communities at risk
� detailed flood maps were published in november 2015
� More than 300 community public consultation days have been held
nationwide under the catchment flood risk Assessment and
Management (cfrAM) Programme
� six flood relief schemes are in construction and 30 are at design
and planning stage
� thirty-six flood relief schemes have been completed to date at a
cost of €240m, providing protection to over 7,000 properties and
more than €1bn in net present value benefits
� €33m has been approved for 500 projects under minor works
schemes with local authorities
� An arterial drainage maintenance programme is ongoing
� capital investment is to increase per annum from €50 million in
2016 to €100 million over the next six years
Water quality� 99% of ireland’s groundwater is classed as ‘good’ – an increase from
85.4% in the last assessment by the environmental Protection Agency
� 48% of rivers, 57% of lakes, 55% of estuaries and 4% of coastal
waters assessed were impacted
� the two most important suspected causes of river pollution are
agriculture and municipal sources, accounting for 53% and 34% of
cases, respectively
� the 13.6% target for improvement in surface water as set out in
the first river basin management plan, as per the water
framework directive, is unlikely to be achieved
What does the future hold?Adverse weather has contributed to significant flooding events in
2015/2016, and with sudden, unfavourable weather likely to be a
future regular occurrence, the publication of the flood risk
management plans scheduled for summer 2016 is timely. flooding
caused by intense rainfall (pluvial) is compounded because the
amount of solid material going into gullies and drains increases,
causing blockages and flooding.
the minor works scheme funded through local authorities supports
minor works to alleviate specific problems identified locally. this
funding model, which should continue for the foreseeable future, has
resulted in a total of 500 projects receiving approval in the past six
years and contributes to the monitoring and maintenance
programme.
As part of the second river basin management plan, the seven river
basin districts (rBds) will be reconfigured into three rBds and new
biological tools will be developed for the monitoring programme.
this cycle will run until 2021 and the draft plans are currently being
developed in consultation, led by local authorities at regional level.
Many parts of Ireland remain at high risk of flooding. In other areas that are currently not associated withflooding, the risk will increase. This presents considerable challenges in terms of flood risk management.
FLOOD MANAGEMENTAND WATER QUALITY
SECTOR GRADEFlood management D
Water quality C
OVERALL GRADE
12-MONTHn Continue to engage with localcommunities to develop specificmeasures for each regional areaimpacted by flooding
n Complete the flood risk managementplans, setting out the long-term strategyfor flood risk management
n Complete the second cycle of river basinmanagement plans
FIVE-YEARn Develop a national future floodforecasting service
n Implement the measures and actions setout in the flood risk management plansin a timely manner
n Provide annual updates on the progressof the implementation of the WaterFramework Directive
RECOMMENDATIONS FOR 2016
A review of infrAstructure in irelAnd
engIneerS Ireland 29
C
What is the current state of waste infrastructure?in 2014, the environmental Protection Agency (ePA) released some
up-to-date statistics on progress towards eu waste recycling, recovery
and diversion targets, which indicate that ireland has already met or is on
track to meet a range of waste targets, including the amount of total
biodegradable municipal waste permitted to go to landfill by 2016.
Achieving these goals has required progress on a number of fronts, with
policy playing a key part in creating roles for both the public and private
sectors. resource efficiency programmes such as the national waste
Prevention Programme and rx3 – rethink, recycle, remake – have been
extremely effective. As the circular economy increasingly becomes the
core resource policy of the european commission, the discontinuation of
rx3 appears to be an opportunity missed to build on the initial work.
in waste planning terms, waste management plans for the new southern,
eastern-Midlands, and connacht-ulster regions, and the national
Hazardous waste Management Plan 2014-2020, have called for further
investment in treatment infrastructure for inert, non-hazardous and
hazardous wastes. it is important that the investment in treatment
infrastructure identified in these waste plans is delivered to ensure that
ireland’s policy objectives and targets are achieved.
Alongside these policy developments has been the provision of thermal
recovery infrastructure, replacing landfills, for the treatment of residual
municipal and industrial wastes. the waste-to-energy facility in Meath is
operational and the new facility in Poolbeg, dublin, will commence
production in 2017. Planning applications for a facility in co. cork and in
northern ireland’s arc21 waste region have also been lodged and should
help to address the geographical imbalance in infrastructure on the
island. Municipal waste that is not treated in ireland is currently being
exported for recovery abroad. this activity is a lost economic and resource
opportunity and, if this waste was treated at home, would contribute
significantly to meeting renewable energy targets. it is also becoming
increasingly difficult to secure outlets for this exported waste in europe.
the collection and treatment of organic wastes from households,
businesses and the agricultural sector represents an opportunity for
innovation and jobs but requires continuous investment. More treatment
facilities are required, as outlined in the regional waste plans. However,
the policy environment in ireland has not sufficiently incentivised the
market to attract the investment needed, with developments moving to
northern ireland, where more attractive fiscal supports are available.
What does the future hold?european waste policy is in the process of changing, which will require
ireland to rethink our approach to managing waste, by viewing our waste
streams as valuable material resources. Making better use of our
resources and reducing the leakage of materials, as wastes, from our
economy, will deliver benefits economically and environmentally to
ireland. the move to a circular economy, replacing outdated industrial
take-make-consume and dispose models, is essential if we are to make
better use of our resources and become more resource efficient. the
waste sector has the potential to play a leading role in the development of
the circular economy in ireland, and we must ensure that the policy
environment supports the investment required.
What actions do we need to take?ireland needs to develop additional waste treatment facilities, including
further biological treatment, reprocessing and recovery capacity, to
ensure that the necessary indigenous infrastructure is in place to deliver
the waste management plans and provide for sustainable final treatment
of our wastes. we also need to ensure resilience and contingency in the
sector, so that unforeseen waste events can be managed safely. these
developments will support the policy shift necessary to ensure that waste
is treated as a valuable resource rather than as a burden on our economy.
WASTE
The STaTe of Ireland 2016
30 engIneerS Ireland
OVERALL GRADE
12-MONTHn Continue the roll-out of the organic wastecollection system to households and businesses,supporting the national transition topay-by-weight charging
n Compile and publish a live register of wastetreatment facilities to support the roll-out offuture investment
n Identify weaknesses in the current policyenvironment, such as ineffective economicinstruments, which are not supportinginvestment in new infrastructure, andcommunicate the findings to policy makers
FIVE-YEARn Ensure that the necessary policy environmentand infrastructure is put in place to deliver theprevention and recycling targets as set out in theregional waste management plans
n Prioritise the development of indigenous wastetreatment facilities including anaerobic digestionand biological treatment capacity, soil recoverycapacity, mechanical processing capacity andadditional thermal recovery capacity
n Review the need for contingency landfill capacityas a national backstop to prevent seriouswaste-related events that threaten the health ofcitizens and our environment
RECOMMENDATIONS FOR 2016
C
The waste management sector has a key role to play in Ireland’s transition to a circular economy but a strong nationalpolicy framework is required to deliver national targets and support market practitioners to continue to invest in thecollection and treatment infrastructure needed.
Engineers Ireland22 clyde roadBallsbridgedublin 4.tel: 00 353 1 665 1300 fax: 00 353 1 668 5508www.engineersireland.ie ThinkMedia.ie
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