Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 14 November 2023
77. Deputy Steven Matthews asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if his attention has been drawn to an anomaly in the warmer homes scheme operated through the SEAI that does not allow for the energy upgrade of one-off stone wall properties as they cannot meet the qualifying criteria for any primary measures, and by, extension, secondary measures; if this can be reviewed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [49501/23]
View answerThe Warmer Homes Scheme delivers free energy upgrades for eligible homeowners in low-income households who are most at risk of energy poverty. There are a number of home energy improvements offered as part of the Scheme. The upgrades that will be recommended for a property will depend on many factors, including age, size, type and condition of the property. For each eligible home, SEAI’s technical surveyor will determine which upgrades can be installed and funded.
With specific regard to pre-1940s stone-built dwellings, all eligible homes are assessed and where they comprise stone, SEAI will not insulate the stone walls. SEAI will however assess, and insulate where appropriate, any post-1940 extensions that may be present in the same home.
Stone-built (traditional built) structures were designed to be vapour permeable. Therefore, the materials and techniques used in energy efficiency upgrades of such buildings must be suitable for the buildings in question including for use with vapour permeable construction where applicable. Otherwise vapour becomes trapped leading to problems which can cause harm to the building and its occupants. These walls are not suitable for the currently NSAI approved products and standards for retrofitting which are used on more modern construction types.
To support the proper upgrade of traditional buildings a new technical Guidance Document - “Energy Efficiency in Traditional Buildings” is being developed by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage. My Department and the SEAI are participating in the steering group overseeing the project. The objective is to finalise the guidance having regard to submissions received in the public consultation with a view to publishing it this by the end of this year.
Once available this guidance will be an important resource to support contractors in the appropriate energy efficiency upgrade and renovation of older stone-build buildings while ensuring compliance with the appropriate building regulations.
