Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 16 April 2024
157. Deputy Duncan Smith asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications the status of the warmth and well-being pilot for COPD sufferers; if there are plans to expand the pilot or to expand access to the fully funded energy upgrade scheme for all who are recognised as COPD sufferers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16008/24]
View answerThe Warmth and Well-being pilot scheme was an interdepartmental and inter-agency project led by my Department, in collaboration with the Department of Health (DoH), the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) and the Health Service Executive (HSE). The project was established to produce research on how extensive energy efficiency upgrades to homes can improve the health and well-being of people living with chronic respiratory conditions.
The London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM) were recruited to carry out independent analysis of the health impacts. Participants’ health and well-being was assessed and tracked over a 3-year period following their upgrade. The pilot, provided fully funded upgrades to 1,600 homes including attic and wall insulation, window and door replacement and heating system upgrades where needed.
The research shows that retrofits have resulted in measured improved comfort in the homes as well as improved health and well-being scores across multiple dimensions. These included:
• Warmer, more comfortable homes, with heating systems that are easier to control;
• Improved physical health including reduced pain;
• Improved mental health and well-being including reduced feelings of anxiety and depression;
• Reduced visits to GP and A&E and fewer incidences requiring hospitalisation;
• Reduced prescription drug usage for their respiratory conditions;
• Being more comfortable inviting other to their homes.
The learnings from the project are already influencing policy. This includes mainstreaming elements of the project into our national energy poverty retrofit scheme – the Warmer Homes scheme. Working with vulnerable homeowners has allowed my Department and SEAI to improve the scheme for everyone, keeping the customer at the forefront of the process.
The scheme was also featured in a report by the World Green Building Council as an example of international best practice in starting a renovation wave.
It is planned to finalise and publish the report in the coming weeks.
