Annual Report 2024

The Annual Report 2024 for the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications outlines the progress made towards the goals set out in Le Chéile 25, our Statement of Strategy 2024-2025. The Annual Report 2024 is reflective of the Department’s structure and name prior to a transfer of functions in June 2025.

The 2024 Annual Report illustrates progress towards achievement of 6 Strategic Goals:

• Goal 1 Be a recognised leader in climate action
• Goal 2 Transform our energy system for a secure and affordable net zero emissions future
• Goal 3 Restore, protect and enhance our natural environment
• Goal 4 Deliver world class connectivity and communications
• Goal 5 Deliver enhanced cyber security defence and resilience across government and society
• Goal 6 Develop our people, culture and organisation

Key achievements in 2024 include:

• Progress against Climate Action Plan 2024 stood at 70% by year end, with 39 of 56 actions completed.
• The Deposit Return Scheme has become one of the most positive consumer behaviour initiatives to be rolled-out in this country for decades, with almost 1 billion containers returned in 2024.
• 326,000 premises were passed in the National Broadband Plan during 2024, with over 110,595 connections made.
• Ireland was one of the first countries to submit their final National Energy and Climate Plan (NECP) to the European Commission in July 2024, ensuring the protection of the marine environment, biodiversity and supporting citizens reliant on the sea for their livelihood.
• Launch of the Home Energy Upgrade Loan Scheme, providing 54,000 households with warmer and more energy efficient homes.
• Delivery of the fourth onshore wind auction under the Renewable Electricity Support Scheme, procuring over 2 GWh, enough to power up to half a million homes.