I propose to take Questions Nos. 621 to 623, inclusive, together.
Under the Building Energy Rating (BER) scheme, all dwellings are assessed against a standard calculation methodology know as DEAP (Dwelling Energy Assessment Procedure). DEAP software calculates both energy consumption and carbon dioxide emissions by taking account of a wide range of factors including the dwelling's construction type, orientation, insulation levels, heating system, quality of the windows, doors, floors, lighting, ventilation, air tightness, etc.
In terms of energy efficiency, wood chip boilers would generally achieve an efficiency of 80% whereas, for example, modern oil condensing boilers can achieve efficiency levels of 93%. In contrast to this, the wood chip boiler performs significantly better than the oil boiler in terms of carbon dioxide emissions. The wood chip boiler also has an advantage where newly built dwellings are concerned in terms of assisting with meeting the mandatory requirement under Part L of the Building Regulations 1997-2009 to source a reasonable proportion of energy from renewable energy sources.
The database of BER activity maintained by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland does not distinguish between privately or publicly owned dwellings. My Department is not therefore in a position to supply the requested statistical information in full. However, the available data are being compiled and will be forwarded directly to the Deputy.