This month, Dublin engaged with members via a roundtable and multiple one-to-one meetings on energy costs in the context of reaching Net Zero requirements. There was an acknowledgement among members that prices have eased but are still quite burdensome on business. While many businesses remain frustrated with inadequate renewable energy infrastructure which plays a part in high energy prices – with the antiquated grid also a significant concern.

Advocacy and working with DETE

Throughout our conversations with members in Q1 thus far, businesses continue to raise the arduous nature of government supports. Up front capital is a significant problem raised among business especially when finance is particular difficult to access. With many members calling for a change in this regard, encouraging that it is investment in decarbonising assets and not just a cost.

Dublin Chamber currently sits on the Department of Enterprise’s SME Decarbonisation working group and is tasked with looking at such shortfalls. This group is now looking at the Climate Toolkit 4 Business portal, if you have experience with using this toolkit and have any feedback directly for the Department of Enterprise, please email policy@dublinchamber.ie

Policy update – Programme for Government

Dublin Chamber is encouraged by the most recent Programme for Government and its moves on the sustainability agenda. The Programme hosts a range of pro-data centre policies, realising the economic and sustainable gains that can come from the growing sector. Dublin Chamber has continually pointed out that Large Energy Users can be a fundamental in reaching Climate targets.  The Programme sets out a policy that will “allow data centres that contribute to economic growth and efficient grid usage, such as prioritising waste heat capture for district heating systems and other local uses.” are where the Chamber has been a strong voice. 

Other policies that are welcomed by Dublin Chamber are the promotion of circular economy activity, grid investment which will allow for increased concentration of electricity powered by renewable energy such as biofuels and further investment in growing Ireland’s renewable