Charlie McConalogue (Donegal, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Deputy for raising this question, for his work on this matter over the last number of months, and his engagement on it.

Farm safety is an absolute priority for my Department and is always given considerable thought in the design of schemes. The new TAMS is aligned to our climate goals with enhanced support for farmers to invest in renewable energy solutions on their farms. To encourage the purchase of solar investments, thereby reducing dependence on fossil energy by farmers, the TAMS solar scheme is ring-fenced with its own investment ceiling of €90,000 and grant aided at the enhanced rate of 60%. The safety of solar PV systems, both at installation phase and for subsequent use by applicants of the TAMS grants, is of paramount importance. My Department has introduced technical specification S198 - a minimum specification for the installation of solar PV systems - which covers all relevant electrical and structural standards. My Department also requires that Safe Electric Ireland registered qualified electricians must undertake training courses in micro solar photovoltaic systems implementation and micro-generators electrical installation. The institutions that provide such courses are Chevron Training & Recruitment Ltd. and Metac Training which are certified to Quality and Qualifications Ireland, QQI, standard. The level of certification is for a special purpose award micro solar photovoltaic systems implementation, and a special purpose award micro-generator electrical installation. The certification is a recognised QQI level 6 award in education and training for both courses. Equivalent qualifications within the EU are also acceptable. My Department also requires that solar PV installers must sign off on a testing and commissioning report that confirms that the system is ready for electricity generation in a safe manner in line with the latest applicable electrical standards.

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