Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 3 March 2021
93. Deputy Steven Matthews asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if he will review the reports on the 2017-2018 pilot programme that was run through the SEAI that sought to increase the energy efficiency of schools; and if such a scheme will be reintroduced and include grant funding for improvements such as installing LED lights to replace existing fittings. [12002/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Public Sector Pathfinder Programme is aimed at testing retrofit approaches, building capacity and developing a scalable model that can be replicated across the wider public sector. The schools initiative within the programme is co-funded by my Department and the Department of Education.
The Public Sector Pathfinder Programme is reviewed on a regular basis. While the programme currently supports the replacement of lighting with high-efficiency alternatives, it can only do so as part of a wider energy efficiency upgrade that includes elements such as the building insulation and heating system.
Since 2017, my Department has contributed over €36 million to the Public Sector Pathfinder Programme, €10 million of which has supported energy efficiency measures in schools. The 2021 budget for the programme is €21 million.
Information on eligibility criteria for proposed projects under the Public Sector Pathfinder Programme along with other grant supports and advisory services, made available through the SEAI and funded by my Department, is available at www.seai.ie/business-and-public-sector/ In addition, the Programme for Government and the Climate Action Plan have set out a number of targets for the public sector in 2030. These include:- An energy efficiency improvement target of 50%- A decarbonisation target of at least 50%- All public buildings to achieve a Better Energy Rating level of at least B
My Department is working with other Departments across Government to achieve these targets.
