I propose to take Questions Nos. 159 to 161, inclusive, together.
The Programme for Government commits to achieving an average 7% per annum reduction in overall greenhouse gas emissions from 2021 to 2030 and to achieving net zero emissions by 2050.
In order to ensure alignment to these commitments, last year I approved changes to the Excellence in Energy Efficiency Design (EXEED) Programme. These changes included setting the programme's primary objective to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by supporting businesses and other organisations in adopting the EXEED Certified approach to energy efficient design management.
Following the EXEED standard encourages innovation in design projects. It drives adoption of long-term solutions thereby future proofing investment and reducing energy consumption, emissions, and costs for the lifetime of the asset. The evaluation criteria applied is appropriate to accurately score the energy and emissions reduction arising from projects while also ensuring value for money for the exchequer.
The revised programme was launched in January 2021 and will operate for three years. A review will be carried out in mid-2022 to assess the programme’s performance and impact, at which point changes to the programme may be considered. I do not intend to make changes to the scheme in advance of the completion of that review.
The SEAI provides other grant schemes which may be more suitable for SMEs. Further details can be found at Business Grants & Supports | Business & Public Sector | SEAI
