Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 16 April 2024
171. Deputy Neasa Hourigan asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications the supports available, in addition to the solar PV grant scheme, to specifically assist people with a disability to avail of solar panels on their homes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16199/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraResidential solar PV is supported by the Micro-generation Support Scheme (MSS), which is targeting 380MW of new renewable generation capacity under the Climate Action Plan. Grants are available through the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) for domestic installations, up to a maximum of €2,100 in 2024.
A new targeted Solar PV scheme for vulnerable customers registered as being dependent on electrically powered assistive devices, is currently underway. This €20m scheme is targeted to provide direct support to over 3,000 medically vulnerable customers who have a dependence on electrically powered medical equipment, life protecting devices or assistive technologies such as dialysis machines, respirators, chairlifts and elevators etc; and who therefore may have limited opportunity to reduce their electricity demand. The scheme will provide households with a 2 KW solar PV system, in order to meet some of their electricity requirements. This includes survey/design, supply, installation, and the post works BER.
The scheme is operational and installations have already been completed, though not all Energy Suppliers are signed up. The scheme is wholly managed by the Energy Suppliers and each of the registered Energy Suppliers are contacting their own eligible customers directly.
Although there is currently no specific scheme for persons with a disability to avail of solar panels, along with existing schemes, my Department are also working closely together, along with SEAI; on further potential targeted solar PV and smart energy solutions for vulnerable consumers in 2024 and beyond.
