Clendennen welcomes €250m energy support package

Fine Gael TD for Offaly Deputy John Clendennen has welcomed the Government’s announcement of measures aimed at easing the burden of rising fuel and energy costs on households, motorists, businesses and farmers.

Deputy Clendennen said the measures are designed to deliver practical relief at a time of significant international uncertainty and volatility in energy markets.

“The escalating conflict in the Middle East and Gulf is having a direct impact on global energy prices, and we are acutely aware of the pressure this is placing on households and businesses. These measures are about stepping in to provide real, tangible support where it is most needed,” Deputy Clendennen said.

From midnight tonight (March 24), there will be significant reductions in excise duties and subsequently in fuel costs. These include a 20 cent reduction per litre of diesel,a 15 cent reduction per litre of petrol and a 3 cent reduction per litre of marked gas oil (green diesel). All of these reductions will remain in place until the end of May.

Additionally, the National Oil Reserves Agency (NORA) levy of 2 cent per litre on petrol, diesel, and home heating oil will be paused for two months from 1 April, subject to legislation being passed this week.

This means an effective total reduction of 22 cent per litre for diesel and 17 cent per litre for petrol.

“For consumers, this will mean real savings every time they fill their tank. A typical 60-litre fill will be around €10 cheaper for petrol users and €13 cheaper for diesel drivers. That’s money back in people’s pockets immediately,” Deputy Clendennen said.

The Government is also taking steps to support households with heating costs including a four-week extension of the fuel allowance season, benefiting approximately 470,000 households, including pensioners, carers, people with disabilities, and low-income families, he said.

“This package recognises that many families are worried not just about transport costs but about keeping their homes warm. Extending the fuel allowance ensures targeted help reaches the most vulnerable,” Deputy Clendennen said.

Clendennen also emphasised the importance of keeping supply chains moving.

“The Government will increase the diesel rebate scheme from 7.5 cent to 12 cent per litre, backdate this increase to 1 January 2026 and extend the measure until 30 June 2026.

“This increase to the diesel rebate scheme and its extension will assist hauliers and public transport operators in managing rising costs, helping to stabilise prices across the wider economy and protect supply chains.”

Clendennen stated that while no government can fully shield consumers from global energy shocks, this package represents a balanced and responsible intervention.

“This overall suite of measures is targeted, time-bound, and flexible. They provide immediate relief while allowing the Government to adapt as the situation evolves.

“This is a package worth approximately €250 million, reflecting both the strong position the country’s finances are in to allow for such a package as well as emphasising a significant commitment by the Government to support households and businesses.”

Deputy Clendennen also welcomed the establishment of a new cross-Government working group to address ongoing economic challenges and accelerate Ireland’s transition to renewable energy.

“This crisis underlines the importance of reducing our dependence on imported fossil fuels. Alongside immediate supports, we must continue investing in clean, secure, and sustainable energy for the future.”