Abstract

Energy is a key concern for every country, as it is inextricably linked with economic growth and sustainable development. As the world transitions to 21st century approaches to energy, numerous challenges arise to the forefront. These challenges include the crucial need for clean and renewable energy and transitioning away from fossil fuels, energy efficiency, energy security, and affordable energy for all. Achieving these goals involves innovation, investment, smart policies, and technological advancement. This article examines how two countries — The Republic of Ireland and Estonia — are faring towards achieving the above objectives. Both countries have implemented relevant measures and policies, such as the deployment of smart meters and grids, demand response, and promoting electric vehicles. However, both still need to take steps to accelerate progress. Many of their schemes could serve as models for other countries seeking to effectively decarbonize

Introduction

This article enumerates the energy strategy, policy framework, and regulatory architecture underpinning Estonia and the Republic of Ireland’s (“Ireland”) smart grid transitions. It will analyse the progress that both countries have made against their strategic objectives in light of the WiseGRID1 project’s principal aim: to contribute to the energy sector new technologies and solutions for the improvement of the smartness, stability and security of the European energy grid. This article also evaluates Estonia and Ireland’s responses to the challenges that have arisen during their transition processes in the hope of stimulating further discussion on this important topic. While Section II will deal with Ireland, Section III will analyse the case of Estonia. Section IV concludes the article.