Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 2 July 2026
169. Deputy Pa Daly asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment the breakdown of the funding that was allocated for solar PV as part of the warming homes scheme in each of the years 2020 to 2026, in tabular form. [50345/26]
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 the carbon tax revenues and the European Regional Development Fund.
The Warmer Homes Scheme is available to owner-occupied properties, based on the householder being in receipt of certain Department of Social Protection income supports. 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 follows a fabric-first approach, prioritising installation and ventilation to reduce heat loss before replacing heating systems in line with building regulations and best practice. At present, solar PV is not offered as a standard upgrade under the scheme. However, the SEAI is piloting the installation of renewable technologies including heat pumps and, in a small number of cases, solar PV where major renovations are taking place. As at end of May 2026, 102 Warmer Homes Scheme homes have received solar PV measures through the renewables pilot.
The renewables pilot is helping to assess the suitability of such technologies in the context of energy poverty. Measures available under the scheme are kept under ongoing review and my Department continues to work closely with the SEAI to ensure we maximise scheme output.
Homes built before 2021 are eligible for part-funded solar PV grants under separate SEAI programmes. The Government remains committed to ensuring that low-income households benefit from Ireland's renewable energy transition.
