Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 23 June 2026
117. Deputy Michael Cahill asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment to include the replacement of double glazed windows under the warmer homes scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46965/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe 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 revenues and the European Regional Development Fund.
There are a number of home energy improvements offered as part of the Warmer Homes Scheme. The upgrades that will be recommended for a property will depend on many factors, including age, size, type and condition of the property.
These can include:
• attic insulation and appropriate ventilation;
• wall insulation and appropriate ventilation – cavity wall, external wall or dry lining depending on the property;
• secondary measures – lagging jackets, draughtproofing, energy efficient lighting; and
• in certain circumstances, heating system and window replacements.
For each eligible home, the SEAI’s technical surveyor determines which upgrades can be installed and funded.
Under the scheme, windows are only upgraded in certain circumstances. Windows are only replaced where single-glazed windows are in place and where a primary measure of attic or wall insulation is also being installed.
Appendix 1 of the scheme application guidelines is available at:
https://www.seai.ie/sites/default/files/publications/Scheme-and-Application-Guidelines.pdf.
It provides further details on the conditions for the various recommendations for energy efficiency upgrade measures, including the conditions for when replacement windows may be recommended.
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.
