Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 24 February 2022
98. Deputy Thomas Pringle asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications the current waiting times from application to completion in relation to each individual grant scheme operated by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10465/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) administers a range of grant schemes to support homeowners to improve the energy efficiency of their properties. Grants of up to 50% are now available for individuals who can afford to contribute to the cost of upgrades as well as free energy efficiency retrofits for people at risk of energy poverty. A total of €267 million in capital funding has been provided this year for SEAI residential and community schemes.
Of the total budget, €118 million has been allocated to the energy poverty schemes which are directly provided by contractors procured by SEAI. SEAI data indicates that, for homes completed last year, the average cycle time from application to completion was 26 months for the Warmer Homes Scheme and 27 months for the Warmth and Wellbeing Scheme. It is important to note that COVID-19 related restrictions in 2020 and 2021 negatively impacted wait times under these schemes.
Addressing this issue is a key priority for my Department and the SEAI. This year’s budget allocation will support an increase in the number of homes retrofitted from 177 per month in 2021 to 400 per month this year. This level of activity will reduce waiting times and enable the homes currently on the Warmer Homes Scheme list to be cleared in approximately 18 months.
Other SEAI schemes require homeowners to procure their own contractor or one-stop-shops secure approval from SEAI and draw down a grant once the works are completed.
SEAI approval for Better Energy Homes and Solar PV Schemes is automatic and completion times are within the control of the homeowner. However, works must be completed within an 8-month period, starting from the date of grant approval. Under the new National Home Energy Upgrade Scheme, homeowners will engage a registered One Stop Shop to manage the grant application process and oversee delivery of the retrofit on their behalf. Works must be completed under this scheme within 12 months.
