Dan Boyle (Cork South Central, Green Party)
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Question 190: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the guidelines that exist for local authorities installing or retrofitting heating systems in their housing stock; and if such guidelines give precedence to non-fossil fuel based heating systems. [5953/07]

Noel Ahern (Dublin North West, Fianna Fail)
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In July 2004, my Department introduced a special programme for the installation of central heating in local authority rented dwellings. Local authorities were advised that the choice of heating system and associated improvements in thermal insulation was a matter for determination by the authority with reference to, the expected capital and running costs, including servicing and management and maintenance costs as well as the preference of the occupants. In addition, the environmental benefits of the chosen system e.g. reduction in CO2 emissions were also to be borne in mind.

Prior to this initiative, my Department has required since 1994 that central heating be provided in all new local authority dwellings and included in the overall cost of schemes. Local authorities are also required to comply with the Building Regulations, the Department's guidelines and other statutory requirements when installing central heating in dwellings.

A number of pilot projects, supported by the Department, in relation to the provision of alternative energy for social housing are currently underway. When these are completed and the results assessed, a decision will be made on the future direction of policy in this area.