Smart meters and smart infrastructure provide the essential foundation for the delivery of the benefits of the energy transition and are a key enabler for the participation of energy consumers. Over 2 million smart meters have been installed to date nationwide, through the National Smart Metering Programme. A smart and flexible energy system will reduce consumer energy bills by reducing the amount of generation and network assets that need to be built to meet peak demand.
The deployment and integration of energy smart appliances such as electric vehicle (EV) charge points, domestic battery energy storage systems (BESS), heat pumps and hot water heating solutions is a crucial next step for empowering households and businesses to play a central role in Ireland’s energy transition. It will give consumers greater control over their energy bills through access to smart technologies and services, which allow users to optimise their energy use to align with Time of Use tariff periods, dynamic tariffs and to enable participation in Demand Side Response (DSR) schemes.
The Warmer Homes Scheme aims to improve the energy efficiency and warmth of homes owned by people at risk of energy poverty by providing fully funded retrofits. The scheme is operated by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) on behalf of my Department and is funded through carbon tax receipts and the European Regional Development Fund.
The Warmer Homes Scheme is available to owner-occupied properties, based on the householder being in receipt of certain Department of Social Protection income supports, including fuel allowance. The scheme targets support to those on the lowest incomes who are living in the least efficient homes so that the resources available can have the greatest impact in addressing energy poverty.
The scheme seeks to reduce the amount of energy a household needs by reducing heat loss through the installation of insulation and ventilation in the first instance, before moving to replacing heating systems where required under Building Regulations. This is in line with the fabric first/energy efficiency first principle and best practice.
The SEAI is piloting the installation of renewable technologies under the scheme, including heat pumps where major renovations are taking place. These pilots are helping us assess the suitability of such technologies in the context of energy poverty and long-term value for money.
The scope of upgrades under the scheme is kept under ongoing review and my Department continues to work closely with the SEAI to ensure we maximise the impact of every euro spent.
