Written Answers Nos. 31-58
31. Deputy Pa Daly asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment further to the cap on market revenues and the climate action fund, the reasons the Government has failed to spend this revenue; the way in which this revenue will be spent to reduce emissions and electricity prices; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44290/26]
View answerThis Government is committed to climate action and has provided record funding for climate related measures and actions.
With respect to the Climate Action Fund, it is not correct to say that the Government has failed to spend this revenue. The total expenditure from the Climate Action Fund to date amounts to €261 million. Last year, the Climate Action Fund’s expenditure exceeded the income to the fund; and included €14m on the Schools Photovoltaic Programme, €53m on retrofitting hospitals and other public buildings, over €16m on peatland rehabilitation and over €13m on community-based climate action projects.
The balance in the CAF at the end of May was €253m, €217m of which has already been allocated to transport and energy projects and programmes.
With respect to the Market Cap Fund, this fund was established to meet EU obligations arising from unexpected benefits to energy producers at the time of the Russian invasion of Ukraine. The fund is to be used to finance measures to mitigate the impact of high electricity prices on electricity consumers.
To date, I have approved the allocation of up to €37m from the Market Cap Fund to the Non-Domestic Micro-generation Grant Scheme to cover anticipated payments by SEAI under this scheme during 2026. Total disbursements to SEAI to the end of April 2026 for this scheme were €14.805m.
The cash balance in the Market Cap Fund at the end of April 2026 was €178.6m. I intend that this remaining balance will be fully deployed on suitable measures to support electricity customers. This is expected to include a continuation of the Non-Domestic Micro-generation Grant Scheme as well as consideration of funding for new measures to be brought forward in a new Energy Affordability Action Plan by the National Energy Affordability Taskforce.
32. Deputy Colm Burke asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment to confirm whether eligibility for grants for insulation will be expanded under the SEAI programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44541/26]
View answerThe Government is committed to driving increased retrofitting and home energy upgrades. A range of measures have been introduced in recent years under the National Retrofit Plan to support this commitment, including early in 2026 when an enhanced package of Sustainable Energy of Ireland (SEAI) retrofit supports were introduced with significant increases in grant supports for energy efficiency measures. The National Residential Retrofit Plan 2026 will continue to make home energy upgrades more accessible and affordable.
The grants available through the SEAI aim to maximise emission reductions and deliver energy savings for the widest range of homeowners possible. The grants available, and their respective eligibility criteria, were selected as most likely to deliver significant energy savings to homeowners as well as best value for money for the Exchequer.
The new and increased grant rates I announced in January 2026 include: increased attic and cavity insulation grants; new grants for windows and doors; higher attic insulation grants for first time buyers; and increased grants for Approved Housing Bodies to upgrade homes, supporting also multi-unit developments; and added support for older people accessing retrofits under the Healthy Age Friendly Homes initiative. All of these will help put homeowners on the pathway to decarbonising their homes.
These measures have seen applications for individual home energy upgrades increase by 186%, Solar PV applications increase by 65% and overall applications up 96% versus Q1 2025.
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, as well as preparing an Energy Affordability Action Plan. This work includes examining how to support increased uptake of home energy efficiency upgrades and the continued development of the SEAI retrofit schemes, in line with commitments in the Programme for Government.
My Department and the SEAI 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, making appropriate changes as necessary.
34. Deputy John Paul O'Shea asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment the progress to date on delivering grid reinforcement and storage capacity to support the increased integration of renewable energy; if he is satisfied that current timelines are sufficient to meet Ireland’s 2030 emissions reduction targets; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42814/26]
View answerPlanning, developing, safely operating and maintaining the electricity system are functions which are assigned to the respective Distribution and Transmission System Operators and for which they are accountable to the Commission for Regulation of Utilities (CRU). EirGrid, as Transmission System Operator, has responsibility for the development of the Transmission Network and ESB Networks, as Distribution System Operator, has responsibility for the development of the Distribution Network.
As set out in the Programme for Government ensuring that the necessary investment is made in the electricity grid is a priority for Government. The CRU Price Review 6 (PR6) decision will see up to €18.9 billion invested in our electricity system over the coming 5 years, the largest ever electricity grid investment. This is a landmark investment to upgrade Ireland’s existing electricity infrastructure and deliver critical new infrastructure to meet future demand.
PR6 will unlock additional electricity capacity through an ambitious transmission and distribution capital programme, including 29 transmission priority projects and 31 distribution priority projects. These projects were identified as part of a wider DSO obligation to deliver HV reinforcements unlocking 3,999MVA of capacity on the distribution system during PR6.
As regards renewable generation and storage please note that cross Government work is ongoing to accelerate critical infrastructure. My Department is either leading on or part of numerous taskforces focused on delivering critical infrastructure for our citizens including the Accelerating Renewable Electricity Taskforce, the Offshore Wind Delivery Taskforce and the Accelerating Infrastructure Taskforce.
ESB Networks, EirGrid and CRU can be contacted directly in relation to specific queries at oireachtas@esb.ie, oireachtas@eirgrid.com and oireachtas@cru.ie.
37. Deputy James Geoghegan asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment if his Department provided a submission or input to the review of exempted developments planning guidelines; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44078/26]
View answerThe Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage is currently undertaking a review of existing exempted development regulations, which have been in place for over 20 years, with certain modifications over that period. My Department has been part of an ongoing engagement process led by DHLGH on the exempted development regulations generally and that remains ongoing.
A key consideration in my Department’s ongoing involvement in planning and regulatory reform is expediting infrastructure delivery, needed to facilitate decarbonisation of Ireland’s economy and greater climate resilience. The review of existing exempted development regulations is timely and is critical to improving Ireland’s competitiveness and energy security. Reducing or removing regulatory barriers to the greatest extent possible, is a central theme in the Programme for Government 2025, the Accelerating Infrastructure Action Plan and is identified as crucial to supporting enterprise, housing delivery, energy, climate goals and wider social and economic policy.
The ambition that the Government has set in these areas requires clear and decisive action, striking the right balance between regulatory proportionality and high ambition. This includes removing the need to unnecessarily burden the planning system with minor development types, allowing it to prioritise resources towards larger more complex issues, plans and projects.
Nowhere is the urgency more apparent than in the areas of climate action and energy security. The Government is committed to achieving climate neutrality no later than 2050 with a 51% reduction in GHG emissions in the near term. These legally binding objectives are set out in the Climate Action and Low Carbon Development (Amendment) Act 2021.
My Department is committed to ongoing engagement with the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage on the review and implementation of the exempted development regulations, together with the wider delivery of actions in the Accelerating Infrastructure Action Plan.
39. Deputy Peter Roche asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment the engagement his Department has had with the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage regarding the review and update of the Wind Energy Development Guidelines; the input his Department has provided to that process; the way in which the revised guidelines will support Ireland's energy security objectives; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44539/26]
View answerMeeting our national targets for wind energy will require further integrating renewable technologies in proximity to communities in an appropriate manner in full consultation with those communities. In collaboration with my Department, the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage (DHLGH) is currently reviewing the existing 2006 Wind Energy Development Guidelines.
Further to the commencement of Chapter 3 of Part 3 of the Planning and Development Act 2024 on 2 October 2025, provisions for National Planning Statements have been introduced to replace the provisions for Ministerial guidelines issued under section 28 of the Planning and Development Act 2000. All existing Section 28 guidelines will, over time, be revoked and replaced with new National Planning Statements. Any current section 28 guidelines will however remain in force until revoked or replaced by a corresponding National Planning Statement.
In that context, DHLGH is working closely with my Department on the preparation of this National Planning Statement for wind energy, including any appropriate environmental reporting and public consultation requirements, European obligations such as the Renewable Energy Directive (RED III), and considerations such as setback distances, noise, shadow flicker, community obligation, community dividend and grid connections.
My Department, in conjunction with the DHLGH, has also been working to advance guidance on the noise aspect, which is highly technical in nature. The two Departments have been engaging on proposals regarding the measurement and assessment of noise from wind turbines to ensure they are robust and fit for purpose to support our target of meeting 80% of our electricity demand from renewable sources.
40. Deputy Pa Daly asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment to provide an update on the timeline for auctions for both on and offshore energy; the measures he will take to ensure these deadlines are kept; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44292/26]
View answerThe Programme for Government commits to holding at least one Renewable Electricity Support Scheme (RESS) auction annually. 2025 saw the completion of two auctions, the fifth onshore RESS auction and the ORESS Tonn Nua offshore wind auction. The completion of these auctions represents a major step forwards towards achieving our renewable energy ambitions.
The next onshore RESS auction, RESS 6, is due to take place later this year. The terms and conditions for the auction are currently being finalised and I expect to bring them to Government for approval in the coming weeks. A Final Auction Timetable will be published alongside the RESS 6 terms and conditions and will set out the dates for the various stages of the qualification and auction processes.
The next offshore auction, for the Lí Ban site, is targeted to take place in 2027. Survey data for the site is expected to become available from the end of this year, and a roadmap document for the auction is currently being prepared which will provide clarity on potential auction timing and identify issues on the critical path.
Officials from my Department are also currently at advanced stages of negotiating an extended State Aid decision for the RESS with the European Commission to ensure we can continue to deliver on our Programme for Government commitment to holding annual auctions over the coming years.
42. Deputy Michael Murphy asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment whether he acknowledges the impact that prolonged delays in the warmer homes scheme are having on older persons, low-income families and vulnerable households living in energy poverty; whether additional funding, staffing or contractor capacity will be provided to accelerate delivery; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41547/26]
View answerThe 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 average waiting time under the Warmer Homes Scheme, from application to allocation to a contractor for upgrade works in 2025 was just under 15 months.
The breakdown of average waiting times under the scheme in 2025 was as follows:
• Application to Pre-BER Published - 6.5 months;
• Application to Survey Completed - 13.5 months;
• Application to Contractor Allocation - 14.8 months; and
• Application to Works Completed - 22 months.
This represents a decrease from an average waiting time of 26 months for homes completed in 2022. In parallel with this decrease in the average waiting time, the number of homes upgraded in a year has almost doubled over the same period, increasing from over 4,200 in 2022 to over 8,100 in 2025.
The SEAI publish indicative wait times on their website for each stage of the process. This is available here: www.seai.ie/grants/home-energy-grants/fully-funded-upgrades-for-certain-homeowners
The reduction in waiting times and increase in number of homes upgraded follows a range of measures introduced by my Department and the SEAI. These include:
• the allocation of additional staff to the Warmer Homes Scheme;
• a significantly increased budget allocation;
• active contract engagement and management by the SEAI to increase contractor output; and
• actions to address ongoing supply chain pressures.
The SEAI are currently establishing a new €1.2 billion contractor panel to be in place in the coming weeks. This will support continued growth with a focus on scale, quality and output under the scheme.
To help maximise delivery and continue to improve waiting times, Budget 2026 provided record funding of €340 million for the Warmer Homes Scheme, with a target of 11,500 fully funded home upgrades for 2026.
43. Deputy Paul Murphy asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment the new actions that will be included in future climate action plans to reduce agricultural emissions given they are likely to reduce by only 4% by 2030 with existing measures; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44547/26]
View answerRegarding the agriculture sector projections, the responsibility for managing emissions within that ceiling is a matter for my colleague the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine. It is worth noting that the projected 4% decrease (compared to the 2018 baseline) under the 'With Existing Measures' (WEM) scenario only includes policies or measures in place by the end of the latest inventory year (2024). Under the more ambitious 'With Additional Measures' (WAM) scenario which also includes additional planned measures (such as those in Climate Action Plans 2024 and 2025), a 19% emissions reduction is now projected by 2030.
By comparison, last year the EPA projected an increase in agricultural emissions of 1% to 2030 under the WEM scenario, and a decrease of 16% under the WAM scenario. This shows that the sector can make significant strides in the right direction when the additional measures are taken into account. It is too early to detail additional actions that will appear in future Climate Action Plans (CAPs). The detailed measures in the agriculture sector will be a matter to be agreed by the relevant Minister.
To maintain and build on our momentum in delivering this transformation across all sectors, we have put enhanced governance structures in place to speed up delivery and unlock barriers to progress. I now chair the Climate Action Delivery Board which meets on a quarterly basis; and the Climate Action Plan Programme Board has been newly established. These are providing direct oversight on the delivery of our highest impact measures across twelve cross-departmental taskforces, driving delivery in all major sectors, including the comprehensive suite of measures set out in both CAPs 2024 and 2025
44. Deputy Naoise Ó Muirí asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment the number and total value of drawdowns under the home energy upgrade loan scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44498/26]
View answerThe Home Energy Upgrade Loan Scheme (HEULS), which launched in April 2024, is intended to play a crucial role in helping homeowners invest in energy upgrades to make their homes warmer, healthier and more comfortable, with lower emissions and lower bills. It was developed by my Department, in conjunction with the Department of Finance, the Strategic Banking Corporation of Ireland (SBCI), the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) and the European Investment Bank Group.
The scheme is available nationwide and homeowners can borrow from €5,000 to €75,000 on an unsecured basis for a term of up to 10 years at significantly lower interest rates to those currently on the market. Rates start from as low as 2.99% with price varying depending on the finance provider. PTSB was the first lender to join in April 2024, with AIB and Bank of Ireland joining in June 2024. In 2025, the group of participating lenders was expanded to include Avant Money (in partnership with An Post) and seven credit unions from the Irish League of Credit Unions.
Loan applications are processed, validated and approved by the participating finance providers. Only loans that have been drawn down under the scheme are uploaded by the finance providers to the SBCI's reporting system.
At the end of Q1 2026, there were 1,135 loans drawn to a value of €56,071,897 since the scheme launched. The SBCI provide a regional breakdown of loan uptake on a quarterly basis.
In line with the Programme for Government’s commitment to “Promote the €500 million Home Energy Upgrade Loan Scheme, offering low interest loans for home energy upgrades, from €5,000 to €75,000”, my Department continues to work closely with the SBCI, the SEAI and the participating finance providers to increase awareness of, and demand for, the scheme and drive additional uptake in 2026 and beyond.
The Deputy may wish to note that further information and quarterly reports related to the HEULS are available here: [www.gov.ie/en/department-of-climate-energy-and-the-environment/publications/home-energy-upgrade-loan-scheme/] .
45. Deputy Cathal Crowe asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment if Ireland is on course to meet off-shore wind energy targets by 2030; if he will outline the consequences if these targets are not reached; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44470/26]
View answerFive Phase 1 offshore wind projects are presently in development off our East coast, with planned capacity of 3.8 gigawatts (GW). All five have submitted planning applications and first determinations from An Coimisiún Pleanála are anticipated before the end of 2026, with the others to follow in 2027. Subject to planning approval, and the progression of the projects by the developers, I anticipate that some of these projects will be in construction by 2030 and operational in the early 2030s.
The 900 MW Tonn Nua project off the coast of Waterford is progressing well since approval in 2025. Tonn Nua was the first of four sites to be brought to auction from the South Coast DMAP. My Department is making preparations to bring the remaining three South Coast DMAP sites to auction over the next few years.
Separately, my Department is advancing the National DMAP process, which will designate sufficient additional sites around our coast to facilitate our longer term target of 20 GW.
The international market situation for offshore wind has changed much since Ireland's first offshore wind auction in 2023. Prices in the supply chain have increased, many offshore wind developers have rationalised their operations and now have a more risk averse investment outlook, and many jurisdictions have seen failed auctions for various reasons.
This changed market environment presents challenges for all nations in progressing their offshore wind ambitions. I am maintaining a regular dialogue with our offshore wind industry, and in particular our Phase 1 projects, as we navigate these challenges.
While this more challenging international market environment has the potential to impact on the timing of achievement of particular milestones in our offshore wind ambitions, Government remains committed to achieving those ambitions.
47. Deputy Joe Neville asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment the measures his Department has put in place to ensure that Ireland is utilising wind energy grid infrastructure that we have put in place; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44558/26]
View answerFive Phase 1 offshore wind projects are presently in development off our East coast, with planned capacity of 3.8 gigawatts (GW). All five have submitted planning applications and first determinations from An Coimisiún Pleanála are anticipated before the end of 2026, with the others to follow in 2027. Subject to planning approval, and the continued progress of the projects by the developers, I anticipate that some of these projects will be in construction by 2030 and operational in the early 2030s. As the Phase 1 projects are responsible for the construction of the offshore grid related to their projects, the construction of the offshore grid will proceed at the same pace as the wind farms.
The 900 MW Tonn Nua project off the coast of Waterford is progressing well since approval in 2025. EirGrid will be constructing the offshore grid for that project and is projected to make a grid connection available by 2033. Tonn Nua was the first of four sites to be brought to auction from the South Coast DMAP.
My Department is making preparations to bring the remaining three South Coast DMAP sites to auction over the next few years.
Separately, my Department is advancing the National DMAP process, which will designate sufficient additional sites around our coast to facilitate our longer term target of 20 GW.
50. Deputy Naoise Ó Cearúil asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment for an update on any long-term assessment work being undertaken in relation to nuclear technologies as part of wider energy security planning; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44476/26]
View answerThere are two specific legislative prohibitions on nuclear power in place in Ireland. Both electricity legislation, in section 18(6) of the Electricity Regulation Act 1999, and planning legislation, in section 182 of the Planning and Development Act 2024, prohibit the development of nuclear fission for electricity generation. Those provisions would need to be repealed as a first step to planning for the introduction of domestic nuclear fission energy generation.
My immediate focus is to prioritise the development of renewable electricity to reduce Ireland’s heavy reliance on natural gas generation. As a Government, we are committed to accelerating the development of offshore wind, onshore wind and solar generation, as well as electricity storage. We are also actively increasing our interconnection with other countries, including those with nuclear as part of their electricity generation mix.
We also need to consider all options in the long-term. The SEAI are undertaking the Decarbonised Electricity System Study to provide Government with an evidence-based pathway, or choice of pathways, for decarbonising the Irish electricity system post-2030, in line with Government policy to reach net-zero emissions by 2050. This technical study is examining thirty technologies, across generation, storage, and sector coupling, with decarbonising potential, which includes Small Modular Nuclear Fission Reactors amongst other technologies.
Experience in the UK and other European countries suggests that the development of traditional nuclear power plants in particular takes many years. Sizewell C in the UK for example has faced a number of delays, and having being originally proposed in 2009, is expected to be completed in the 2030s, with an estimated cost of £38 billion. Therefore, nuclear power could not practically be part of our electricity system in the 2020s or the 2030s. To enable the procurement and construction of nuclear plants, and ultimately their safe demolition and the disposal of the waste created, an extensive regulatory system would need to be developed.
Any decision would have to be supported by the people of Ireland.
At present it is not apparent that public opinion is in favour of removing the legislative ban on the development of domestic nuclear power plants for electricity in Ireland. Building that majority would require an extensive conversation about the best means, that is consistent with energy security and affordability, to get to a net zero position for electricity by 2050.
51. Deputy Noel McCarthy asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment further to Parliamentary Question No. 103 of 16 April 2026, to outline any further progress made in the drafting of the Private Wires Bill 2025; when he expects the bill to be enacted; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44518/26]
View answerMy Department is continuing to work with Zero Emissions Vehicles Ireland and the Department of Transport in developing a solution to enable people without access to off street parking to use a home charging solution for on street parking. I expect this to be finalised later this year.
My Department has been engaging with the Office of Parliamentary Counsel to draft the necessary legislation required to bring forward the private wires regime. Introducing a private wires regime is a priority for this Government. The Joint Committee on Climate, Environment and Energy have undertaken pre-legislative scrutiny on the General Scheme of the Private Wires Bill with a report published at the end of April which is under review in the Department. It is my intention that the Bill will have completed its passage through the Oireachtas as early as possible this year.
52. Deputy Barry Heneghan asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment the legislative or regulatory steps the Government plans to take to enable community energy sharing models, whereby locally generated renewable electricity can be shared directly between producers and consumers through the distribution network, similar to the model operating in Austria where over thousands of energy communities are now in operation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44471/26]
View answerA framework for enabling energy sharing is laid out in the Electricity Market Design Directive (EMD) (Directive 2024/1711). Under Article 15a “right to energy sharing”, all households, SMEs and public bodies will have the right to participate in energy sharing as active customers. Under this Article active consumers will be able to share energy either through direct private agreements (peer-to-peer), or through a third party or energy sharing organiser.
On 7 January 2026, the Commission for the Regulation of Utilities published a Call for Evidence on a Conceptual Design Paper for Energy Sharing as well as on Article 4 of the Directive pertaining to consumers having multiple electricity supply contracts. The purpose of the paper is to set out initial consideration or potential high-level solutions to these activities, seeking feedback from interested stakeholders. The potential benefits of energy sharing, including the empowerment of energy communities, are also examined in the paper. This Call for Evidence has since closed and it is expected that its findings will be published by the CRU in due course.
My officials are working closely with the CRU, ESB Networks, and other stakeholders to ensure that transposition is well grounded in the context of the Irish electricity market and will bring the full benefit of these new provisions and market activities to Irish consumers.
53. Deputy Barry Heneghan asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment the steps his Department is taking, including engagement with relevant standards bodies and stakeholders, to facilitate any necessary amendments to the National Rules for Electrical Installations (I.S. 10101) that would permit the safe installation of plug-in solar systems in homes and apartments; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44472/26]
View answerPlug-in solar systems are very small PV energy systems, usually two or three modules and less than 1 kW in total per installation, which are connected to a micro-inverter and plugged directly into a normal household socket. This then feeds the house’s internal electricity system. These low-cost panels can be put on balconies or outdoor spaces. The use of plug-in mini solar technology has grown in some EU countries in recent years as consumers search for ways to save on high energy bills.
As Minister, I am supportive of any technology which can reduce costs for households and consumers and increase the share of renewables in our system, provided that it can be integrated safely. For that reason, last month I wrote to ESB Networks (ESBN) requesting that, in its capacity as the body responsible for safety regulations and technical standards for the distribution grid, it works with the National Standards Authority of Ireland, Safe Electric and the Commission for the Regulation of Utilities to prioritise and accelerate the development of standards that will permit the use of "plug-in" solar systems in Ireland.
The Managing Director of ESBN has since written to me confirming ESBN's support for the safe, proportionate use of small, plug-in solar or battery devices up to a total of 800 W (AC) provided that the following conditions are met:
• customer and public safety are prioritised and assured;
• network integrity and power quality are maintained in all operating conditions;
• the DSO has appropriate visibility of connected generation through a simple registration process; and
• devices meet the relevant technical and product standards.
ESBN has commenced work in this regard and has written to other key stakeholders with a view to coordinating the respective positions and set out a shared pathway to accelerate the deployment of plug-in solar and storage. Engagement with Eirgrid to ensure that it is adequately prepared for the impact of plug-in generation on the transmission network will also take place.
ESBN is also engaging with the UK-based Electricity Networks Association to align approaches with the evolving UK position on plug-in generation and storage to ensure a consistent approach across Northern Ireland and Ireland, reflecting the cross-border market for devices, installers and network participation. My officials are also in contact with officials from the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero in the UK. EU Guidance on the matter is also being considered.
54. Deputy Louis O'Hara asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment if he plans to reduce waiting times for the solar PV scheme for medically vulnerable customers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43467/26]
View answerThe Solar PV for the Medically Vulnerable Scheme is a targeted scheme for the installation of solar photovoltaic (PV) panels for customers/households who are registered on the life support category of the Priority Services Register. These homes have a dependence on electrically powered equipment, including medical equipment, life protecting devices and assistive technologies such as dialysis machines and respirators. As such, these households may have a higher energy demand than the average user and this scheme is designed to go some way towards helping to reduce those energy costs.
Over 470 systems were installed last year with expenditure of €2.4 million. This year will see a major expansion of delivery with an allocation of €11.7 million to support over 1,900 homes.
The scheme is operated by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) in conjunction with energy suppliers, with each energy supplier contacting their own eligible customers directly, in line with the work plans for their solar PV installers. Eligible households can avail of a fully funded 2kWp solar PV system, including survey/design, supply, installation, and the post works BER. Electric Ireland remains one of the energy suppliers involved in the scheme.
It is important to note that suppliers, who manage the administrative aspects of the scheme under the SEAI, issue offers to eligible homeowners. Each participating supplier received an allocated amount of funding under their Memorandum of Understanding with the SEAI and contacts eligible households in batches, based on operational capacity. The administrative aspects of the scheme are a matter for the energy suppliers under their Memorandum of Understanding with the SEAI. My Department understands that feedback regarding the need for clarity on eligibility and the selection process has been outlined by the SEAI to the energy suppliers.
55. Deputy Joe Neville asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment the current status of offshore wind energy on the west coast; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44557/26]
View answerThe focus of the State's development of offshore wind to date has been on our East and South coasts. Five projects are presently in development on the East coast, with a planned capacity of up to 3.8 gigawatts (GW). These projects are awaiting planning determinations from an Coimisiún Pleanála, with the first determinations anticipated before the end of 2026 and the others to follow in 2027.
The South Coast Designated Maritime Area Plan (DMAP) was approved by the Oireachtas in 2024 under the Maritime Area Planning Act 2021. The South Coast DMAP designates four development areas off the coasts of Cork, Waterford and Wexford for offshore wind development. In December 2025, I announced the winner of the auction of the 900MW Tonn Nua site, the first of the South Coast DMAP sites. Further South Coast DMAP auctions will follow.
My Department is now in the process of developing a National DMAP, in order to designate sites all around Ireland's coast, including the West Coast. The National DMAP team have conducted significant stakeholder engagement to date with workshops with key stakeholders such as offshore renewable energy industry, fishers, and environmental NGOs taking place earlier this year. Further engagement took place with representatives from Fishery Harbour Centres and their catchments, including in Rosaveel, Sligo, Westport, Ennis, and Killybegs. Draft Renewable Energy Sites are to be published in 2026 and a public consultation on the draft plan will take place in 2027. The National DMAP will designate sites for both fixed bottom and floating offshore wind.
I anticipate that the National DMAP process will be complete by the end of 2027.
56. Deputy Seán Kyne asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment to provide an update on progress in developing district heating here; if there are any live projects under consideration; his expectations for the future of this sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44563/26]
View answerGovernment policy is supportive of the expansion of district heating and recognises the contribution it can make to Ireland’s energy and climate goals. The District Heating Steering Group Report was approved by Government in 2023, and a Working Group has been convened to oversee implementation of the Steering Group recommendations.
The first efficient district heating project operational in Ireland is in Tallaght. It was developed by South Dublin County Council (SDCC) and supported through the Climate Action Fund (CAF). Phase 2 of this project is now being planned and evaluated by SDCC.
Dublin City Council (DCC) have also been progressing the Dublin District Heating Project which will use waste heat from the Dublin Waste to Energy Facility in Poolbeg to heat public sector, commercial and residential buildings in the adjacent area. DCC have been allocated €50 million through the CAF to support this project.
The Department allocated €5 million from the CAF to support pre-construction costs for efficient district heating projects in Ireland. In May 2026, on completion of the Expression of Interest phase, the Department and the SEAI invited 15 successful applicants to the detailed application stage.
Under the National Development Plan, for the period 2026 to 2030, up to €100 million has been allocated to support the full development of efficient district heating networks. The scheme is currently being designed by the SEAI, who will also administer it through their District Heating Centre of Excellence. This level of funding demonstrates the Government’s ongoing commitment to district heating as a core component of Ireland’s decarbonisation strategy.
In addition, the SEAI are leading on work to feed into the overall long-term strategy for district heating. This includes development of a national level assessment and a comprehensive advisory project, being conducted in partnership with the European Investment Bank's InvestEU Advisory Hub.
57. Deputy Colm Burke asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment whether consideration will be given to expanding the eligibility for SEAI warmer homes scheme to all those over 70 years-of-age that own and live in their own home and whose home was built and occupied before 2006, regardless of if they are in receipt of a qualifying payment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44540/26]
View answerThe 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 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 is available to owner-occupied homes built before 2006 where the household meets the Department of Social Protection (DSP)-payment related eligibility criteria.
The eligible DSP payments are:
• Fuel Allowance;
• Job Seeker’s Allowance for more than 6 months with a child under 7;
• Working Family Payment (previously the Family Income Supplement);
• One Parent Family Payment;
• Domiciliary Care Allowance;
• Carer’s Allowance (where you live with the person you are caring for); and
• Disability Allowance for more than 6 months with a child under 7.
For people who don’t qualify for the WHS, new measures announced in January under the new National Residential Retrofit Plan 2026 (NRRP) provide grant support for a range of energy efficiency improvements to existing homes. The grants are available across SEAI programmes, Better Energy Homes for individual upgrades, the Community Energy Grant Scheme through project coordinators and the National Home Energy Upgrade Scheme for deep retrofits through One Stop Shops.
The new measures announced include new and enhanced attic and cavity wall insulation grants, an enhanced heat pump system grant, as well as grants for windows and doors. You can find out more information and make applications on the SEAI’s website: www.seai.ie/news-and-events/news/increased-grant-amounts-for-homeowners.
Among the key initiatives announced in January is the Healthy Age Friendly Homes Support Pilot. The pilot is a collaboration between Age Friendly Ireland and the SEAI to facilitate home energy upgrades and will be launched this year for a six-month trial period. Healthy Age Friendly Homes can be contacted at 046 9248899 or email healthyagefriendlyhomes@meathcoco.ie who will be able to provide further information and offer assistance.
Homeowners can also contact the SEAI at any time to get further information on any of the energy upgrade grant support schemes either by email to info@seai.ie or by telephone to 01 808 2004.
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.
You may also wish to note that Government has other schemes and supports in place which may be of assistance where there is an urgent need:
• the Department of Social Protection's Additional Needs Payment is a payment available to people who have essential expenses that they cannot pay from their weekly income. Additional Needs Payments are paid under the Supplementary Welfare Allowance which is administered by the Community Welfare Service or the Department of Social Protection. Details are available here: www.gov.ie/en/service/4eb45-additional-needs-payment/;
• The Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage's Housing Adaptation Grants can assist older people to have necessary adaptations, repairs or improvement works carried out in order to make their accommodation more suitable for their needs. Details are available here: www.gov.ie/en/service/6636c-housing-adaptation-grants-for-older-people-and-people-with-a-disability/.
58. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment if he is considering further investment in renationalisation of key sectors such as energy to reduce household costs and reliance on private profit-driven companies; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27665/26]
View answerResponsibility for the regulation of the electricity market is a matter for the Commission for Regulation of Utilities (CRU) which is an independent regulator, accountable to the Oireachtas and not the Minister. The CRU was assigned responsibility for the regulation of the Irish electricity sector following the enactment of the Electricity Regulation Act, 1999 and subsequent legislation.
My Department has established a cross-Government National Energy Affordability Taskforce to identify, assess and implement measures that will enhance energy affordability for households and businesses, while delivering key renewable commitments and protecting security of supply and economic stability.
The Taskforce's first report set out measures for consideration as part of the Budget 2026 process. This report has been published on Gov.ie, in advance of further analysis and the publication of the Energy Affordability Action Plan in Q3 2026.
There are no plans to renationalise any privately owned energy infrastructure.
