Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 1 December 2020
153. Deputy Verona Murphy asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if he has considered the introduction of a grant scheme for renewable energy systems for new builds, similar to the existing Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland, SEAI, grants available for existing households; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39796/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department funds a number of grant schemes to support homeowners to improve the energy efficiency of their properties. These are administered by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI). Since 2000, over 440,000 homeowners have upgraded their homes with support from these schemes, representing nearly one home in four across the country. This has resulted in warmer, healthier and more comfortable homes that are easier to heat and light.
Building Regulations have been progressively strengthened and new buildings must now meet very high energy performance standards. Homes constructed since 2006 are generally more energy efficient than those built before then due to energy performance requirements of the 2003 Building Regulations. Grant funding for renewable energy measures under the Better Energy Homes scheme and Solar PV scheme are available to homes built before 2011. Currently, there are no plans to introduce a grant scheme for renewable energy systems for newer homes.
It is important to note that the grants available through SEAI aim to maximise emission reductions and deliver energy savings for the widest range of homeowners possible. The grants which are available, and their respective eligibility criteria, were selected as the most likely to deliver significant energy savings to homeowners as well as the best value for money for the Exchequer.
