A recent report published by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI), states that Ireland is likely to fall short of its renewable energy target by a full 2.5% by the end of 2020, potentially attracting high fines from the EU. Despite Ireland being the last EU Member State to provide policy support to solar, this late mover advantage means that Ireland can bridge this gap with solar in a most cost-efficient manner. Solar is the cheapest form of renewable energy generation after onshore wind and the only technology that can bridge this gap in 2020 renewable energy targets in the remaining timeframe. The new support mechanism for renewable energy in Ireland (RESS) is expected in August, followed by a final consultation. It is expected that this process will be completed and that a comprehensive support mechanism will be presented to DG Competition in Brussels for State Aid clearance in advance of the conference. This theme will deal with the implementation of the support mechanism and timeframe. It is widely expected that a market driven mechanism will be implemented for large scale ground mount and thus this section will also provide a detail on how to participate in this auction and what to expect. Expect participation from the Department of Communications, Climate Action and Environment, leading experts in this space and industry.
