The recent implementation of the Small Renewable Electricity Support Scheme (SRESS) phase two by the Irish government signals a strategic move towards enhancing the renewable power sector. Targeting small-scale electricity producers, this scheme signifies a shift in focus towards diversifying and decentralizing energy production. By addressing the needs of smaller entities such as shops, schools, and community centers, the government aims to cultivate a more inclusive approach to renewable energy development. The specifics of how this scheme will impact the broader renewable energy landscape raise intriguing questions about the future of sustainable power generation in Ireland.
Scheme Overview
The Small Renewable Electricity Support Scheme (SRESS) phase two introduced a new payments scheme tailored for small-scale electricity producers focusing on solar arrays and small wind farm projects. This scheme covers power outputs ranging from 50 kW to 6 MW, catering to a wide range of energy needs. At the lower end, it is suitable for buildings like shops, schools, and community centers, while at the higher end, it requires interconnected large rooftops or fields. The initiative aims to bridge the gap between existing schemes for small and large electricity producers, offering guaranteed payments per MWh of electricity generated. Commercial power suppliers will purchase the electricity, with the state reimbursing them for the price difference, ensuring fair pricing and promoting the growth of renewable energy sources in Ireland.
Support for Small Producers
Support for small producers is an essential component of the renewable energy landscape in Ireland. The Small Renewable Electricity Support Scheme (SRESS) phase two has been introduced to specifically cater to small-scale electricity producers, focusing on solar arrays and small wind farm projects with power outputs ranging from 50 kW to 6 MW. This initiative aims to bridge the gap between existing schemes for small and large electricity producers, offering guaranteed payments per MWh of electricity generated. For businesses, tariffs slightly vary between wind and solar energy, with payments set at €80 per MWh for wind power and €120 per MWh for solar. Community participants, on the other hand, will receive slightly higher rates of €90 and €140 respectively.
Participation and Payment Details
Participation in the new Small Renewable Electricity Support Scheme phase two is limited to small and medium enterprises within the renewable energy sector. Businesses participating in the scheme are guaranteed payments for each megawatt-hour (MWh) of electricity generated. The payment structure varies slightly between wind and solar energy. Small and medium enterprises involved in wind energy will receive €80 per MWh, while those engaged in solar energy will be paid €120 per MWh. For community participants, the rates are set at €90 per MWh for wind power and €140 per MWh for solar energy. These payments aim to incentivize and support small-scale renewable electricity production in Ireland.
Payment Mechanism Explained
Introducing a transparent payment mechanism for the Small Renewable Electricity Support Scheme phase two, the state guarantees fair pricing for electricity purchased from SRESS suppliers. Commercial power suppliers buying electricity from SRESS participants will make the payments, with the state reimbursing them for any price difference. This mechanism secures that businesses and community participants receive guaranteed payments per MWh of electricity generated, with slightly varying tariffs for wind and solar energy. Businesses are offered €80 per MWh of wind power and €120 per MWh of solar, while community participants will receive €90 and €140. The terms and conditions of this payment mechanism are set to be published in July, and the scheme is expected to open for applications later in the year.
Government’s Solar Strategy
The Government’s solar strategy aims to substantially increase solar energy capacity in Ireland to meet ambitious renewable energy targets. With a current solar capacity of under 1 GW, the strategy sets out to reach 5 GW by the end of 2025 and 8 GW by 2030. This initiative aligns with the goal of having 80% of electricity generated from renewables by 2030. The Small Renewable Electricity Support Scheme (SRESS) phase two plays a crucial role in this strategy, specifically designed for solar arrays and small wind farm projects with power outputs ranging from 50 kW to 6 MW. The scheme aims to bridge the gap between existing schemes for small and large electricity producers, offering guaranteed payments per MWh of electricity generated to incentivize participation.
Conclusion
To sum up, the Small Renewable Electricity Support Scheme phase two in Ireland aims to bolster renewable power production by providing guaranteed payments for small-scale electricity producers. This scheme underscores the government’s commitment to supporting small producers in the renewable energy sector, filling the gap between existing schemes for small and large producers. By incentivizing the generation of renewable electricity, Ireland is taking proactive steps towards a more sustainable energy future.
