Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 28 April 2026
610. Deputy Barry Ward asked the Minister for Education and Youth her views on the merits of installing solar panels on all buildings operated and owned by agencies under the control of her Department; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [30770/26]
View answerIt is a priority for Government to deliver on Ireland’s ambitious climate agenda and reduce greenhouse gas emissions in line with the department’s Climate Action Roadmap 2025 assets.gov.ie/static/documents/fee782cd/Climate_Action_Roadmap_2025_DEY.pdf and School Sector Technical Climate Action Roadmap www.gov.ie/pdf/?file=https://assets.gov.ie/315407/1680010b-23cc-4c17-94b9-9dc5096c5c67.pdf#page=null. My Department has a strong record with respect to sustainable energy in school buildings and this performance has been recognised at both national and international level with sustainable energy awards for excellence in design and specification.
The installation of solar panels is one of the elements that play a part in meeting the requirements of the Public Sector Climate Action Mandate. The Office of Public Works (OPW) are the National Estate Portfolio Lead under the Public Sector Climate Action Mandate 2025. Where buildings are owned and managed by OPW it is OPW that makes the final determination regarding installation of solar panels and other environmentally friendly energy generation solutions.
