Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 26 October 2022
54. Deputy Pauline Tully asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications the reason that persons in receipt of the household benefits package are not automatically eligible for a Sustainable Energy Authority Ireland fully-funded energy upgrade; if he will consider a review of the grant to ensure that persons receiving this payment automatically qualify; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53700/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Warmer Homes Scheme offers free energy upgrades for eligible homeowners who are most at risk of energy poverty. Eligibility for the Scheme is linked to receipt of certain Department of Social Protection payments.
The Household Benefits Package (HBP) helps with the cost of a household's electricity or gas bill and their TV licence. The package is available to everyone over 70. It is not means tested for this group and is therefore not a qualifying payment for the Warmer Home Scheme.
People aged between 66 and 70 may also get the HBP, if they meet the necessary conditions. People who are under 66 and get Disability Allowance, Invalidity Pension, Blind Pension. or Carer's Allowance (if you are living with the person you are caring for) may also be entitled to the HBP. These groups may also be eligible for the Fuel Allowance which is a qualifying payment for the Warmer Homes scheme.
Households who are not eligible for the Warmer Homes Scheme can apply for grants towards the cost of energy efficiency measures for their home. These include grants equivalent to 80% of the typical cost for attic and cavity wall insulation. In the case of a semi-detached home, the attic insulation grant is up to €1,300 and the cavity wall insulation grant is up to €1,200. These are highly cost-effective measures with a relatively short pay-back time.
All information is available on the SEAI website at www.seai.ie/grants/home-energy-grants/
