Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 3 June 2020
810. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the reason SEAI grants and similar grants for energy efficient systems in sports facilities, clubhouses and club buildings are excluded from application; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8751/20]
View answerMy Department recognises that all types of building and facilities can benefit from energy efficiency upgrades. These upgrades benefit the building users and deliver important climate and environmental improvements by reducing energy use and associated emissions. Two schemes funded by my Department and operated by the SEAI are relevant to facilities such as those listed by the Deputy. The Better Energy Communities (BEC) Scheme funds community based partnerships to improve the energy efficiency of the building stock in their area. It covers homes, community facilities (including sports clubs) and businesses. Grant funding of over €20.5 million was provided in 2019 to support the energy efficiency improvement of more than 650 homes and over 570 non-residential buildings under the scheme. The budget for the BEC Scheme for 2020 has been increased to €22 million (capital) and the successful applicants for 2020 are being notified by SEAI. It is currently envisaged that this scheme will open for new applications later this year. In the meantime prospective applicants might review the existing scheme details and requirements which could be helpful to them if they are considering availing of the scheme in future. The Excellence in Energy Efficient Design (EXEED) scheme could also support upgrades to club houses and buildings.
In addition to the SEAI schemes, my Department has also put in place the Energy Efficiency Obligation Scheme. This scheme places an obligation on energy suppliers to deliver energy savings. As a result of this scheme, obligated parties (Energy Suppliers) are also seeking energy saving projects to meet their energy saving targets.
Further information on these schemes including how and when applications can be made are available on the SEAI website.
