Alan Dillon (Mayo, Fine Gael)

Budget 2026 has provided increased funding. That demonstrates the level of intent in regard to a €89 million increase and we do expect additional European funding through the ERDF. This funding is very much needed now to make homes warmer, healthier and cheaper to heat. We are also matching that funding with capacity. We are enhancing the grants. We know we need to simplify the application process. We need more one-stop shops. We now have around 26. We have increased the deeper, warmer home supports. We have also looked at new area-based projects. The new home energy upgrade loan scheme has been provided at a rate of close to 3%. These are all initiatives that will build the pipeline we want to see in the coming years. Through the NDP review, we have provided a substantial allocation to support this.

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