From targets to action Delivering Ireland's energy ambition

Wednesday 9 September | 10:00am – 1:45pm | The Clayton Hotel, Cork City

We were delighted to welcome Dan O’Brien, Chief Economist of the Institute of International and European Affairs (IIEA), as our keynote speaker. Dan shared his perspectives on the geopolitical and economic challenges facing Ireland’s energy sector, including infrastructure investment, energy security and the role of data centres in supporting future growth.

Energy Sector Survey

The conference in Cork polled more than 150 energy professionals. Almost one quarter (23%) said energy sustainability should be the State’s priority, while 17% selected reducing energy costs for consumers and business.

The findings also showed almost two thirds of respondents (62%) identified grid capacity and demand as the single biggest barrier to turning Ireland’s energy ambition into delivery.

Read the full results

Panel discussions on shaping Ireland’s energy future

Panel 1: How can policy and regulation create the framework for industry to deliver?

• Ann Doherty, Chief Executive Officer, Port of Cork Company
• David Kelly, Chief Executive Officer, Gas Networks Ireland
• Commissioner Fergal Mulligan, Chairperson, Commission for Regulation of Utilities
• Siobhán O’Shea, Chief Infrastructure Officer, EirGrid

This session was moderated by Deirdre Nagle, Partner and Head of Planning & Environment, Mason Hayes & Curran

Watch our full panel recording

Panel 2: How can industry turn ambition into action?

Panel 2: How can industry turn ambition into action?

• Brian Rouse, SVP of Land Development, Krios
• Lorna Devenney, Chief Financial Officer, BnM
• Margaret Nee, Head of Grid, Wind & Solar, Statkraft Ireland

This session was moderated by Keith Newman, Partner, Construction, Infrastructure and Utilities, Mason Hayes & Curran

Watch our full panel recording

Legal update: Material developments on grid connection policy and planning law

Rob McDwyer, Partner, in our Construction, Infrastructure & Utilities team and Elaine Keating, Senior Associate in our Planning & Environment team provided an update on recent developments in grid connection policy and planning law, highlighting emerging trends and the key legal considerations for businesses operating in the sector.