The Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) administers the Better Energy Homes and the Better Energy Warmer Homes schemes on behalf of my Department. Better Energy Warmer Homes delivers a range of energy efficiency measures free of charge to homeowners that are vulnerable to energy poverty. Better Energy Homes provides fixed grants to homeowners who wish to improve the energy performance of their homes, saving money, improving comfort and reducing harmful greenhouse gas emissions. To be eligible for the Better Energy Warmer Homes scheme a householder must be in receipt of one of the following:
- Fuel Allowance as part of the National Fuel Scheme (means tested);
- Job Seekers Allowance for over six months and with a child under seven years of age;
- Family Income Supplement.
The Better Energy Homes scheme is open to any owner of a dwelling built before 2006.
The UK Winter Fuel Payment is available to pensioners who currently or previously resided in the UK. This payment is available to all over 60s regardless of their means. The Department of Social Protection (DSP) has confirmed that persons in receipt of the UK Winter Fuel Payment are not precluded from applying for the Fuel Allowance. However, as the Fuel Allowance is a means tested payment, receipt of the UK Fuel Payment would have to be taken into account in assessing eligibility. Assuming an applicant who was in receipt of the UK Winter Fuel Payment was deemed eligible for the Fuel Allowance, there should be no impediment to them making an application for the Better Energy Warmer Homes scheme, subject to the other eligibility criteria being met.
If an applicant does not qualify for the Better Energy Warmer Homes scheme they can still apply for a grant under the Better Energy Homes scheme.
