Ireland

Overall assessment

The 2010 version of the Climate Policy Tracker gave Ireland a rating of D. The overall trend for Ireland is negative, with the most significant change being the shelving of the draft Climate Change Bill that would have committed Ireland to an 80% reduction in emissions by 2050.

The global economic crisis has had a particularly significant impact on Ireland and a change of government puts the focus firmly on economic recovery. A number of policies that support renewable electricity, heat and transport have been closed or suspended. Nevertheless, a new National Biofuels Obligation Scheme has been introduced and feedin tariffs for renewable electricity generation is also to be expanded, pending state aid clearance by the European Commission. The carbon tax introduced in 2010 will be doubled by 2014. This is expected to lead to approx €330m in overall savings.

Recommendations on most urgent actions

  • A longer-term strategy is needed after the shelving of the Climate Change Bill that would have committed Ireland to an 80% reduction in emissions by 2050.
  • Ireland could improve the energy efficiency of its industry. Special efforts need to focus on material efficiency and reduction of waste through reuse and recycling. Good examples of such schemes are found in Germany.
  • Energy efficiency of buildings should be further improved through renovation programmes.