Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 29 September 2022
17. Deputy Steven Matthews asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media her plans to promote the uptake of the newly launched solar grant for public organisations, including sports clubs; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [47503/22]
View answerThe Sports Capital and Equipment Programme (SCEP) is the primary vehicle for Government support for the development of sports and recreation facilities and the purchase of non-personal sports equipment throughout the country. Over 13,000 projects have now benefited from sports capital funding since 1998, bringing the total allocations in that time to over €1.15 billion. The Programme for Government commits to continuing the SCEP and to prioritising investment in disadvantaged areas.
My Department strives to support organisations in making various sustainable improvements and welcomes the launch of this new Government support of up to €2,400 for the installation of solar PV (photovoltaic) panels for businesses, public organisations and community groups. Under past rounds, including the latest 2020 round which saw a record-breaking allocation of €166.6 million to almost 2,900 organisations, many clubs were successful in receiving allocations towards projects featuring sustainable improvements.
My Department has undertaken a full review of all aspects of the 2020 round of the SCEP and any recommendations arising will be reflected in the terms and conditions of the next round. Following the completion of the review, the Department will announce the exact timing of the next round but it is hoped to have it open for applications early in the new year. In advance of the closing date for applications under the new round, my Department will publicise the relevant terms and conditions and emphasise the various energy-efficiency promoting grants available to sporting clubs and facilities. Further details of these supports can be found currently on the website of the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland at www.seai.ie.
