Erin McGreehan
Ceist:326. Deputy Erin McGreehan asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if he plans to review the warmer homes scheme to ensure it provides flexibility to support homeowners. [21171/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraTuesday, 29 April 2025
Ceisteanna (326)
Freagraí scríofa
The Warmer Homes Scheme aims to improve the energy efficiency and warmth of homes owned by people in 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.
Last year saw a record spend of almost €230 million under the scheme. As reported by the SEAI, this resulted in 7,743 upgrades being provided to low-income households, a 31% increase on 2023. This year’s budget includes an allocation of €280 million for the Warmer Homes Scheme, representing an 11-fold increase on the 2020 expenditure figure.
There are a number of home energy improvements offered as part of the scheme. The upgrades that will be recommended for a property will depend on many factors, including the age, size, type and condition of the property. For each eligible home, the SEAI’s technical surveyor will determine which upgrades can be undertaken and funded.
The measures which are available were selected as the most likely to deliver significant energy savings to homeowners as well as the best value for money for the Exchequer. The grant schemes provided by the SEAI are reviewed on a regular basis and are informed by ongoing pilots such as the Traditional Homes Pilot and the Warmer Homes Heat Pump Pilot.
The Warmer Homes scheme targets support to those in energy poverty and living in the least efficient homes so that the resources available can have the greatest impact. 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.