[IEA]：Energy Policies of IEA Countries: Ireland 2012 Review

Executive Summary

Economic Context: Ireland has experienced a significant economic downturn but remains committed to achieving its ambitious energy targets.
Renewable Targets: Ireland aims to produce 40% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2020.
Energy Security Concerns: Over 93% of Ireland's gas supplies come from a single transit point in Scotland, posing concerns about gas security.

Key Recommendations

General Energy Policy

Overview: Ireland is highly dependent on imported oil and gas. It has set ambitious targets for renewable energy.
Supply and Demand: Two-thirds of Ireland’s electricity already comes from gas-fired generation.
Institutions: Pro-active energy efficiency policy, including a detailed National Energy Efficiency Action Plan.
Key Policies: Focus on renewable energy and energy efficiency.
Taxation: Not explicitly discussed.
Critique: Increased reliance on natural gas due to the push for renewable energy.
Recommendations: Develop a mix of gas and renewable energy projects, improve gas security, and continue energy efficiency measures.

Climate Change

GHG Emissions and Targets: Ireland aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
CO2 Emissions: Significant CO2 emissions from fuel combustion.
Institutions: Specific institutions for climate change initiatives.
Policies and Measures: Various policies and measures to reduce emissions.
Critique: Limited effectiveness of current policies.
Recommendations: Strengthen policies and measures to effectively reduce emissions.

Energy Efficiency

Overview: Detailed National Energy Efficiency Action Plan with 90 measures and actions.
Institutions: Pro-active energy efficiency policies.
Policies and Measures: Implementation of energy-saving measures.
Critique: Limited progress despite extensive plans.
Recommendations: Enhance implementation and enforcement of energy efficiency measures.

Electricity

Supply and Demand: High dependence on gas-fired generation.
Market Structure: Market structure not explicitly discussed.
Generating Capacity: Extensive generating capacity, mostly from gas.
Networks: Networks need improvement.
Supply and Retail: Retail market needs improvement.
Tariffs and Prices: Tariffs and prices not specifically discussed.
Critique: Insufficient competition and high tariffs.
Recommendations: Enhance competition, improve network infrastructure, and reduce tariffs.

Renewable Energy

Supply and Demand: Increasing focus on renewable energy, particularly wind.
Institutions: Specific institutions for renewable energy initiatives.
Policies and Measures: Various policies and measures to support renewable energy.
Critique: Challenges in integrating renewable energy into the grid.
Recommendations: Improve integration of renewable energy, enhance storage and transmission infrastructure.

Energy Policies of IEA Countries: Ireland 2012 Review