Overview

Gas

The CER has a role in promoting the use of renewable and sustainable forms of energy. This role is complimentary to the role of the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources who is responsible for renewable energy policy.

Other agencies and bodies with functions in this area include the Minister for the Environment and Sustainable Energy Ireland (SEI).

In carrying out its functions, renewable, sustainable and alternative energy sources are defined in the legislation as wind, hydro, biomass, waste including waste heat, biofuel, geothermal, fuel cells, tidal, solar and wave.

To help promote the use of these sources of energy, the CER has worked to facilitate the connection of renewable generators to the electricity network including the development of a group processing approach to speed up such connections. We also include specific rules in the electricity wholesale trading arrangements to facilitate renewable generators to sell their electricity to end customers.The CER is not responsible for setting national targets for penetration of renewable energy or for direct financial support mechanisms for renewable generators such as the REFIT scheme or AER schemes. These issues are dealt with by the Department of Communications Marine and Natural Resources and more information on these can be found here.

The CER carries out its role in a way that is designed to support and help the Government meet its renewable policy targets while at the same time balancing its other duties to customers.

Connecting to the Network

EirGrid publishes regularly a list of renewable generators connected to the electrical systems on its Network Connection page

Micro Generation

This type of generation is connected to the electrical system at the low voltage distribution network.

Research and Development

The CER carries out its duties in this area through participation in various research and working groups.

Wholesale Trading

The Trading and Settlement code sets out a balancing regime for green suppliers of electricity.