Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 25 January 2024
115. Deputy Aindrias Moynihan asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications what channel is available for medically vulnerable applicants under the free energy home grants under the SEAI to be prioritised for commencement of works; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3314/24]
View answerFirstly, it should be noted that vulnerable customers who are critically dependent on electricity powered equipment, which includes but is not limited to life protecting devices, assistive technologies to support independent living and medical equipment, cannot be disconnected for non-payment of account at any time.
The Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) operates the Warmer Homes Scheme on behalf of my Department. Delivering free energy upgrades to low-income households and reducing the waiting times for the Warmer Homes Scheme is a top priority for my Department and the SEAI.
Applications to the Scheme are assessed on the basis of when they first apply to SEAI. Homes with the worst Building Energy Ratings (E, F or G) are then prioritised for works. No other prioritisation takes place under the scheme.
The Deputy may wish to note that Government also has other schemes and supports in place which may be of assistance where there is an urgent need:
• SEAI is rolling out a scheme to provide Solar PV to vulnerable customers registered as being dependent on electrically powered assistive devices;
• Part-funded SEAI grants under the Better Energy Homes Scheme support homeowners to retrofit their home in stages over a number of years;
• The Department of Social Protection's Additional Needs Payment is a payment available to people who have essential expenses that they cannot pay from their weekly income. Additional Needs Payments are paid under Supplementary Welfare Allowance which is administered by the Community Welfare Service (CWS) or the Department of Social Protection.
• The Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage's Housing Adaptation Grants for People with a Disability assists people with a disability to have necessary adaptations, repairs or improvement works carried out in order to make their accommodation more suitable for their needs.
