Published on: June 17, 2025
The 19th edition of the European Sustainable Energy Week (EUSEW), Europe’s largest conference on renewables and energy efficiency, gathered policymakers, industry leaders, researchers, and energy advocates. Held from 10 – 12 June in Brussels and online, the event focused on the Clean Industrial Deal, spotlighting strategies to accelerate the EU’s clean energy transition.
Among the notable speakers was Paddy Phelan, CEO of the South East Energy Agency (SEEA), who addressed the forum on the consenting challenges around renewable energy planning in Ireland, particularly at the local level.
Representing SEEA and the European Federation of Agencies and Regions for Energy and the Environment (FEDARENE), Mr. Phelan underscored the role of regional energy agencies in supporting local authorities to create practical, deliverable development plans aligned with the EU’s 2050 clean energy targets.
Phelan voiced concern about the dysfunctional permitting process for Anaerobic Digestion (AD) and biomethane projects in Ireland, citing outdated planning frameworks, limited local authority expertise, and a lack of national guidance; issues flagged by the Irish Bioenergy Association (IrBEA) since 2018.
With Ireland being last of the 27 EU member states in terms of percentage renewable energies, there is increased focus expected on Ireland’s NECP annual report
Paddy Phelan
He outlined SEEA’s efforts to fill the knowledge gap at local level, including:
- Advising on AD system design, odour control, feedstock security, and transport.
- Supporting project promoters in the pre-planning stage.
- Piloting streamlined permitting processes through the Repower Industries Interreg Europe Project, in collaboration with Carlow County Council.
To unlock the full potential of biomethane, Mr. Phelan recommended that both Ireland and the EU:
- Prioritise local authority capacity-building.
- Update outdated national guidelines.
- Fund local technical support.
- Ensure effective community engagement.
- Leverage EU-wide best practices.
He concluded with a spotlight on a community-based biomethane plant in Kilkenny Machinery Yard, highlighting it as a model for innovation and public benefit.
