Ruth Coppinger
Question:286. Deputy Ruth Coppinger asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment to consider the re-introduction of energy credits; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29338/26]
View answerThursday, 23 April 2026
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Government is deeply aware and concerned about the pressures placed on households and businesses by high energy costs. Providing supports to alleviate this pressure has and will continue to be a priority.
The Government has taken, and is taking, action to help households and businesses with the cost of fuel and energy. At this point, the €750 million intervention by the Irish Government is one of the more significant in the EU. This package was announced following significant recent engagement with industry representatives.
It is in addition to the range of measures in Budget 2026 aimed at helping households with energy costs which included:
• an extension of the 9% VAT rate currently applied to gas and electricity, saving households up to €100 per year;
• enhanced social protection payments, including an increase to the Fuel Allowance rate to €38 per week and an expansion in the eligibility rules; and
• a record allocation of €640 million for the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland retrofit schemes.
It is important to note that the Department of Social Protection can also provide support through the Additional Needs Payment to help households meet expenses, including those who face difficulties with fuel bills.
A cross-Government National Energy Affordability Taskforce (NEAT) was established last June to identify and implement measures to enhance energy affordability for households and businesses. The first report of NEAT, published last November, helped to inform key aspects of Budget 2026. The NEAT is now preparing an Energy Affordability Action Plan that will be completed in Q3 of this year.
There are no plans to re-introduce energy credits.