Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 20 September 2023
346. Deputy Darren O'Rourke asked the Minister for Education if she will provide an update on the Government’s commitment to install solar panels on every school; how this will be funded; if it is still the intention to fund this initiative via the climate action fund; if the estimated costs have been revised since the initial announcement; when she expects that the rollout of delivery will begin; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40287/23]
View answerAs the Deputy is aware, Budget 2023 provided for the provision of funding from the Climate Action Fund in relation to the provision of Photovoltaic Panels in schools up to 6KW output.
This is really positive news for our schools and will assist with their energy needs and costs along with supporting the decarbonisation of our school buildings.
My officials are working closely with colleagues in the Department of Environment, Climate and Communication in relation to the arrangements for this multi-annual scheme and details will be announced in the shortest timeframe possible.
As part of planning for the rollout of this multi-annual scheme, the capacity surveys of the school system that are currently underway will also include obtaining up to date data on the number of schools that have solar panels currently. This is important preparatory work in planning for the rollout of this multi-annual scheme. The provision of the solar panels will be fully funded for schools.
