- Association of Electrical Contractors Ireland
- Association of Electrical Contractors Ireland
The Joint Committee on Climate, Environment and Energy has published its Pre-Legislative Scrutiny Report on the General Scheme of the Private Wires Bill 2025, marking an important step forward in how private electricity connections may be regulated in Ireland.
The proposed legislation would amend the Electricity Regulation Act 1999 to allow privately owned electricity lines in strictly limited circumstances, enabling direct connections between generators, storage facilities and customers, separate from the national grid.
The Committee has made 47 recommendations, following extensive stakeholder engagement. A central message of the report is that the national electricity grid must remain publicly owned and the preferred route for connection, with private wires permitted only where they clearly serve the public interest and do not undermine grid financing, system integrity or climate objectives.
The report identifies four narrow scenarios where private wires may be appropriate, including single-generator connections, hybrid connections, neighbouring premises, and notably on‑street electric vehicle charging for domestic use. For EV charging, the Committee recommends a greater role for local authorities, potentially through road opening licences, rather than full CRU licensing.
Strong emphasis is placed on climate alignment, with recommendations that private wires be renewables‑focused, subject to emissions thresholds, and consistent with Ireland’s Climate Law and carbon budgets.
The Committee also stresses fairness to households and small businesses, calling for a no cross‑subsidy principle and a full tariff impact assessment by the CRU before any licensing regime is commenced.
The report has been submitted to the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment and will inform the final drafting of the Bill, which is currently listed for Priority Publication. The Committee has recommended that licensing should not begin until the CRU is adequately resourced.
Commenting on the report, Darren Kinsella, President of AECI, said:
“Electrical contractors are at the front line of delivering the energy transition. This report rightly recognises that private wires must be carefully controlled, climate‑aligned and fair to consumers. AECI welcomes the emphasis on grid integrity, EV charging enablement, and the need for clear, workable rules that support high‑quality, safe electrical installations without shifting costs onto households.”
AECI will continue to closely monitor the progression of the Private Wires Bill and engage with policymakers to ensure the final framework supports safe practice, consumer protection, and practical delivery on the ground for electrical contractors.
