AQW 26033/17-22

Dr Caoimhe Archibald
Sinn Féin
East Londonderry

Tabled Date: 18/11/2021
Answered On Date: 29/11/2021
Priority Written: Yes

Question:
To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs whether, subject to the European Commission communication Tackling Rising Energy Prices: A Toolbox for Action and Support, there is revenue through the Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS) for fuel poverty measures due to the continued participation in the EU ETS under the Protocol.

Answer:

On 13 October 2021 the European Commission released a communication in relation to “Tackling rising energy prices: a toolbox for action and support”. This communication, amongst other things, advises member states that EU Emissions Trading Scheme (EU ETS) auction revenue can be used to make social payments to those most at risk to help pay their energy bills.

NI’s electricity generators participate in the EU ETS in order to maintain the all-island Single Electricity Market (SEM), by virtue of the NI Protocol. It is expected NI’s first auction will be in February 2022. The disbursement of revenue from NI’s auctions is a matter for HM Treasury.