Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 7 May 2026
170. Deputy Barry Heneghan asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment whether his Department or any agency under its remit has examined the potential for a State supported bulk procurement or aggregated purchasing model for small-scale solar photovoltaic systems for households; if so, the findings of any such examination; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33733/26]
View answerThe Micro-generation Support Scheme (MSS) provides support to domestic and non-domestic applicants for renewable installations through grants provided by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI).
The grants administered by the SEAI assist homeowners in privately engaging contractors to install solar PV works. A declaration of works is provided by scheme participants to the SEAI, on which data concerning the brand and quantity of panels installed is recorded. All installers must meet the standards specified by the SEAI's Domestic Technical Standards and Specifications document and the Domestic Solar Photovoltaic Code of Practice for Installers.
Bulk purchasing of solar PV is supported under the Sustainable Energy Communities Programme, through Solar Meitheal. This is a community-led initiative based on the traditional Irish concept of neighbours working together. It enables groups of homeowners within a Sustainable Energy Community to come together and get quotations for solar PV. It also helps the community and homeowners to simplify organising the installations and achieve cost efficiencies through bulk purchasing.
The Sustainable Energy Community Programme supports communities to develop sustainable energy systems by improving energy efficiency, increasing the use of renewables and considering smart energy solutions. Under Solar Meitheal projects, homeowners are assisted through the provision of information on solar PV and guidance on SEAI grants.
Since the introduction of the MSS domestic grant in 2022, the scheme has gone strength to strength. 10,000 homes received support in 2022; followed by 22,214 in 202;3 and 28,000 in 2024. Last year, over 33,000 installations were supported; with over 7,000 homes supported so far in 2026 and applications of over 10,000 - a 60% increase year on year. This high level of demand and delivery indicates that the scheme is working well and that citizens recognise the significant benefits of investing in solar PV.
My Department and the SEAI will continue to ensure that grant schemes terms and conditions, eligibility criteria and rates are kept under review taking account of demand, research, innovation, evolving technology and other relevant factors.
The National Energy Affordability Taskforce, was formed to identify, assess and implement measures to enhance energy affordability for households. The Taskforce is now leading the response to the energy shock, and the immediate associated energy affordability challenge. This work includes examining how to support increased uptake of home energy efficiency upgrades and continued development of the SEAI retrofit schemes in line with commitments in the Programme for Government.
