Session 2 Dr Gary Goggins - SEAI National Energy Research & Policy Conference 2022

1. SEAI National Energy Research & Policy Conference, 8 September, 2022
Dr Gary Goggins
Integrating non-energy policies
to reduce energy demand

2. LIFE IP Wild Atlantic Nature overview
• Long-term project (-2029) funded under EU LIFE
• Coordinated by DHLGH, 9 partners
• Total budget €20.6m (EU €12.3m)
• Remit to attract complementary funding
• Aimed at management of Natura 2000 network
• Specific focus on Ireland’s SAC network of blanket bog
• Multi actor project involving relevant authorities
• Farmer, community focused, supported by government

3. Wild Atlantic Nature approach
• Key objective = high quality
habitats, sensitive to local
contexts that deliver for the
environment, farmers and
local communities

4. (Hybrid) Results-
based agri-
environment
programme (RBPS)

5. RBPS 2022/2023
Results Payment

6. Integrating RBPS with energy policy
• Opportunity to provide > incentives to reduce peat-cutting
• Upgrading energy performance of households
• Removing/replacing material components that facilitate peat burning
• Potential outcomes include
• Reduction in use of peat; < carbon emissions
• Improved air quality (indoor/outdoor)
• Reduced energy poverty
• > incentives for home energy improvements in rural areas
• Integration of energy issues in existing rural development programmes
• Better integration of different policies (e.g. land use, energy, social)

7. Gary.Goggins@housing.gov.ie
@WAN_LIFEIP @WildAtlanticNature
info@wildatlanticnature.ie
www.wildatlanticnature.ie