Annual Report 2022

The Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications’ vision is for a climate neutral, sustainable and digitally connected Ireland. Our Annual Report 2022 outlines the progress made towards the goals we set out in our Statement of Strategy 2021-2023, Le Chéile 23.

The 2022 Annual Report illustrates progress towards achievement of 5 Strategic Goals:

• Goal 1 Be a recognised leader in climate action
• Goal 2 Transform our energy system for a net zero emissions future
• Goal 3 Transition to a circular economy – protecting and restoring our environment through sustainable resource use
• Goal 4 Deliver world class connectivity and communications
• Goal 5 Ensure best in class governance and regulation

Key achievements in 2022 include:

• Sectoral Emissions Ceilings - ambitious targets were set for different sectors of the economy, towards delivery of a 51% cut in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030.
• Climate Action Plan 2021 - 79% of measures implemented by end of 2022; Climate Action Plan 2023 published.
• National Retrofit Plan – over 27,000 home energy upgrades with an estimated 40.27kt CO2 emissions savings.
• The National Energy Security Framework published - committing to 31 policy actions with 15 completed in 2022, and work on the remaining policy responses substantially progressed.
• The Circular Economy and Miscellaneous Provisions Act 2022 was signed into law.
• Cost of Living Crisis – Over €1.5bn in electricity credits put in place for households across two Electricity Costs Emergency Benefit Scheme payments.
• National Broadband Plan – Over 109,000 premises passed in 2022, ahead of target.