Communication Networks Sectoral Adaptation Plan

Communication Networks were identified in the 2024 National Adaptation Framework as one of the sectors for which a sectoral adaptation plan must be prepared. Consequently, the Communication Networks SAP was prepared in accordance with the requirements of Section 6 of the Climate Change and Low Carbon Development Acts (2015 and 2021).

The Communication Networks SAP creates a framework that will support, guide and monitor the communication sector in achieving a vision that Ireland’s communication networks will be adapted to ensure they can continue to support a vibrant society and economy in the face of climate change. The SAP has the following goals:

• The first goal is to improve the sectoral understanding and awareness of the impacts of climate change on communication networks, and to promote better cooperation between stakeholders, including key cross-sectoral groups, e.g. the electricity network sector.
• The second goal is to strengthen sectoral risk identification and prioritisation capacities by undertaking further investigations. The plan identifies where data gaps currently exist in terms of either relevant downscaled climate projection data or in terms of detailed geospatial datasets describing network infrastructure, both of which are required to make detailed risk assessments.
• The third goal is to encourage the building of sectoral adaptive capacities, e.g. by promoting climate resilience-related R&D relevant to the sector.
• The fourth goal is to prepare the sector, including its users, for the occurrence of network damage and service outages linked to climate-related hazards.

In preparing the Communication Networks SAP, a technical report about the potential risks of Extreme Heat on certain telecoms equipment was produced:

Other technical reports produced during the lifetime of this SAP will also be published on this page.