Dáil debates

Tuesday, 14 May 2024

Ceisteanna ar Sonraíodh Uain Dóibh - Priority Questions

Energy Conservation

8:50 pm

Photo of Ossian SmythOssian Smyth (Dún Laoghaire, Green Party) | Oireachtas source

In order to install a heat pump, people need to ensure their home is suitable for heat pump installation, certainly in terms of whether it is insulated sufficiently to be ready to have the heat pump installed. Installation of a heat pump is a skilled activity and requires an understanding of connecting the heat pump with the plumbing system, for example, so it does take certain skills. The SEAI approves and certifies suppliers for doing this and it provides advice to homeowners on what type of insulation they need to install a heat pump. Presumably, there are heat pumps that have been incorrectly installed.

I do not think the usefulness of heat pumps is in question. However, I am sure it would be worth having a study to see what the actual performance of heat pumps is in the real world and how they are functioning in the retrofit system in Ireland. I know the SEAI regularly carries out studies to see what the actual performance is of the buildings they have subsidised for upgrades. I accept the Deputy’s suggestions in this regard.

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