Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 25 September 2024
7. Deputy Darren O'Rourke asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if he will report on the warmer homes scheme; the reasons solar PV has not comprised a significant component of this programme given the increased popularity and affordability of the technology; if he has plans to change this; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38030/24]
View answerThe Warmer Homes Scheme delivers free energy upgrades for eligible homeowners in low-income households who are most at risk of energy poverty. Since the start of the scheme in 2000, over 150,000 free upgrades have been supported by the scheme. There are a number of home energy improvements offered as part of the Scheme.
The scheme seeks to reduce the amount of energy a household needs by reducing heat loss through the installation of insulation and ventilation in the first instance, before moving to replacing heating systems where required under Building Regulations. This is in line with the fabric first/energy efficiency first principle and best practice.
SEAI are currently piloting the installation of renewable technologies, mainly heat pumps, where a major renovation is taking place. The purpose of the pilot is to test the capabilities and the suitability of installing heat pumps in the context of energy poverty objectives for the Warmer Homes Programme.
SEAI data indicates that in a small number of homes in the pilot, Solar PV has also been installed with a heat pump, with the aim of providing further insights in relation to running costs and uptake. The learnings from piloting PV installations will also inform the approach to compliance with future changes to the Building Regulations for major renovations under the scheme.
The Deputy may also wish to note that homes built prior to 2011 are eligible for part funded grants for Solar PV. Further details can be found on the SEAI website at www.seai.ie .
