Commenting on yesterday’s announcement on the extension to the RESS-1 prequalification deadline, Ruth Young Training Consultant at Cornwall Insight Ireland, said:
“Given the significant challenge that the ongoing COVID-19 crisis poses for RESS participants and EirGrid alike, it will have come as little surprise that the Minister has now agreed to an extension of the prequalification deadline.
“Concerns such as getting necessary documentation, including Director declarations, has been made apparent to the department. Not to mention the significant challenge that any community-led project would have had in organising an application with current social-distancing advice in place.
“EirGrid have indicated that auction timelines will shift as a result, with dates to be updated and notified to participants in due course. Given the four week extension for the prequalification window, Cornwall Insight Ireland estimates an auction is now likely to be held in July or August rather than June.
“Given the time it has taken to get to this stage in RESS, some may be frustrated with the delay. However, this is an unprecedented event, so a delay of this nature seems sensible and certainly, some participants will be very glad to see this announcement.”
–Ends
