"Ireland shares the view of the European Commission that the only lasting way out of fossil dependency is to modernise by shifting electricity generation to renewables, and by electrifying the economy as rapidly as possible. During our upcoming EU Presidency, Ireland will drive the EU's energy agenda, including making meaningful progress on the Grids Package and other key files which will expedite the deployment of renewables and bolster the EU’s security of supply. I welcome the publication today of AccelerateEU, which sets out a range of measures to address the current affordability crisis, and also a temporary relaxation of State Aid rules – expected next week – which would allow Member States greater flexibility in implementing targeted measures.

"I particularly welcome proposals for greater EU-level coordination of oil stock releases and gas storage refilling, and look forward to the publication in May of new legislation on energy taxation and network charges. These initiatives will lead to a more electrified, more efficient energy system that can lower prices for consumers. As a country, we stand ready to lead on the delivery of these new measures during our upcoming presidency.

"In addition to these EU-level actions, the government remains committed to supporting sectors particularly acutely affected by the current crisis. We have introduced a range of targeted domestic actions that recognise a disproportionate burden on rural households dependent on diesel/kerosene. These measures also seek to address the exposure of heavy diesel sectors such as agriculture, haulage, construction and transport and the severe impacts on tourism, hospitality and healthcare through fuel and logistics costs. While the measures come within the competence of national governments there is a continued need for EU flexibility to enable prompt national supports where justified."

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Notes to the Editor