Paul Murphy
Ceist:169. Deputy Paul Murphy asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment if he will introduce a €500 energy credit for households to respond to the cost-of-living crisis. [26786/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraWednesday, 15 April 2026
Ceisteanna (169)
Freagraí scríofa
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 is taking action to help households and businesses with the cost of fuel and energy, introducing an additional package of measures in recent days that includes measures on fuel costs and supports for the transport, farming and fisheries sectors.
This package was announced following significant recent engagement with industry representatives and is in addition to the previously allocated €250 million in targeted supports to assist those experiencing real and immediate financial pressure.
It is also 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 SEAI 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.
There are no plans to introduce a €500 energy credit.