Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 17 February 2021
61. Deputy Martin Browne asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications his plans to introduce grant funding for sport centres interested in installing solar panels to reduce running costs and the carbon footprints of the centres, given that the current SEAI grant does not fully meet the requirements of sports centres. [8779/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Communities Energy Grant Scheme funded by my Department and operated by the SEAI makes grant funding available for community-based partnerships to improve the energy efficiency of the building stock in their area and is applicable to homes, community facilities, and businesses. This scheme also facilitates projects from sports centres and it includes support for solar when part of a wider package. This facilitates more comprehensive upgrades which will significantly improve the facilities concerned and reduce running costs and carbon emissions. More information is available on the SEAI website at: https://www.seai.ie/grants/community-grants/
A Micro-Generation working group, chaired by my Department, is examining an enabling framework for micro- generation which tackles existing barriers and establishes suitable supports within relevant market segments. This work aligns with the recently announced Programme for Government and is an integral part of our emerging Photovoltaic Solar Strategy. The proposed support mechanism is outlined in a Public Consultation which has just been launched. The consultation is open until the 18th February 2021. A suitable support payment for excess electricity generated on site and exported to the grid will be available to all micro-generators by July 2021 in line with the transposition of EU Directive 2018/2001 into Irish law.
My Department is also currently working with SEAI on the development of a new scheme to provide support to Sustainable Energy Communities to implement projects identified in their energy master plans. This scheme, which will target smaller scale community-driven projects will be introduced later this year. It is envisaged that it would also facilitate solar as a measure when included as part of a wider package of energy upgrades in a community driven project.
In addition, SEAI is working with the GAA on their new Green Clubs initiative as their energy partner and through the pilot programme hopes to identify sustainable solutions for the network of GAA clubs all across Ireland.
