The European Commission has published a new strategy for meeting its target of cutting greenhouse gas emissions by around 20% in the next 12 years.
Part of the plan aims to achieve 20% of electricity generation from renewable sources.
Ireland is expected to face some of the toughest targets in the plan under an agreement designed to ensure that richer countries bear the brunt of the burden.
Reports this morning say achieving the targets could cost the State up to €1bn every year.