CRU Decision Unlocks New Opportunities for Hybrid Energy Projects
CRU has published its Decision Paper on the Sharing of Maximum Export Capacity (MEC) behind a Single Connection Point, marking a significant policy development for Ireland’s electricity sector.
What the Decision Means
At its core, the decision allows co‑located hybrid projects - such as combinations of renewable generation technologies or generation paired with battery storage - to operate behind one connection point while sharing a single MEC allocation. Rather than each asset requiring its own export capacity, qualifying projects can now optimise a shared connection.
This represents a major shift in how grid access is managed and reflects the growing complexity of the power system as it transitions toward higher levels of renewable and storage deployment.
Benefits for Project Delivery and the Electricity System
The CRU’s decision delivers several important benefits:
- Increased potential output: By sharing MEC, hybrid projects can make better use of available grid capacity without exceeding export limits.
- Faster project delivery: Reducing the need for new or expanded grid connections can shorten development timelines.
- Reduced grid reinforcement requirements: More efficient use of existing infrastructure limits the need for costly and time‑consuming network upgrades.
- Improved system flexibility: Enabling storage and diversified generation at a single site supports better balancing of supply and demand.
These outcomes support the wider energy transition by helping new projects come online more quickly while maintaining system reliability.
Who the Policy Applies To
The MEC sharing framework applies to separately metered generation and/or storage units that are:
- Independently registered for market participation
- Eligible for dispatch
- Subject to separate settlement arrangements
This ensures that, while assets share a grid connection and export capacity, they remain transparent and distinct from a market and operational perspective.
Alignment with National Climate Policy
The decision builds on commitments set out in the Climate Action Plan 2021, as well as subsequent updates that emphasise accelerating renewable deployment and maximising grid efficiency. It also follows the CRU’s removal of the Installed Capacity Cap in 2024, which cleared a key regulatory barrier to co‑located and hybrid developments.
Process and Stakeholder Input
The CRU’s approach was informed by detailed technical analysis from the System Operators, ensuring that MEC sharing arrangements can be implemented without compromising network security. The decision also follows a public consultation published in March 2025, giving industry stakeholders the opportunity to provide input on both the technical and commercial implications of the proposal.
Looking Ahead
The publication of this Decision Paper provides much‑needed clarity for developers, investors, and system operators. By formally enabling MEC sharing behind a single connection point, the CRU has laid the groundwork for more flexible, efficient, and innovative project configurations—an essential step as Ireland continues to scale up renewables and energy storage.
For hybrid projects in particular, this decision represents a meaningful opportunity to optimise grid access and contribute more effectively to a resilient, low‑carbon electricity system.
Read full decision in our publications section.