Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 2 July 2019
563. Deputy Michael Moynihan asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the grants or assistance available to community groups to install renewable energy sources in community centres and facilities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27868/19]
Amharc ar fhreagraA number of schemes funded by my Department and administered by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland can assist in the installation of renewable energy sources in community buildings and facilities. The Better Energy Communities Scheme funds community based partnerships to improve the energy efficiency of the building stock in their area, including community buildings and facilities. Renewable energy solutions like wind turbines, biomass plants, and photovoltaic systems are eligible where included as part of a broader retrofit under this scheme.
In 2019, I have allocated €23m to the scheme. In 2018, 37 projects were funded with an Exchequer investment of €19.9m. Further information can be found at https://www.seai.ie/grants/community-grants/project-criteria-and-funding/
The Support Scheme for Renewable Heat (SSRH) is designed to support the switch from fossil fuels to renewable heating systems. The SSRH has been developed to financially support the adoption of renewable heating systems by commercial, industrial, agricultural, district heating operators and other non-domestic heat users not covered by the EU Emissions Trading System. The SSRH supports eligible projects through one of the following support mechanisms:
- An installation grant, of up to 30% of the installation cost, for ground, water, or air source electric heat pumps; or
- Ongoing operational support for a period of up to 15 years, on the basis of prescribed tariffs, for biomass boilers and anaerobic digestion heating systems.
The National Development Plan includes an allocation of €300 million for the rollout of the scheme for the period up to 2027.
The SSRH is administered by SEAI and full details, including how to apply, are available on SEAI’s website at https://www.seai.ie/sustainable-solutions/support-scheme-renewable-/
