Energy Infrastructure

Wednesday, 30 September 2026

Ceisteanna (107)

John Connolly

Ceist:

107. Deputy John Connolly asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage further to Parliamentary Question Nos. PQ61112/26 and 139 of 28 July 2026, if his attention has been drawn to Central Statistics Office data that only 15% of new dwellings completed since 2021 have been fitted with solar photovoltaic (PV) panels; his concerns that the current Part L and NZEB requirements can be satisfied without the installation of on-site renewable electricity generation; if he will consider amending the requirements to increase the uptake of solar PV in new homes at the construction stage when installation costs are lowest; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [69133/26]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage

Ireland’s Building Regulations set out the legal requirements for the construction of new buildings (including houses), extensions to existing buildings, material alterations and certain material changes of use to existing buildings. The minimum performance requirements are set out in the Second Schedule to the Building Regulations, classified as Parts A to M. They are performance based and technology neutral.

A minimum renewable energy ratio (RER) for all new dwellings in all residential developments regardless of size is required and include solar energy or alternative renewable energy technologies.

The primary responsibility for compliance with the requirements of the Building Regulations rests with the designers, builders and owners of buildings.

Changes in Building Regulations in Ireland in the past 20 years have led to healthier dwellings being constructed today that are overall energy efficient, emit significantly less carbon emissions and use more energy from renewable sources.

Question No. 108 answered with Question No. 98.