Ciarán Lynch (Cork South Central, Labour)
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Question 119: To ask the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the grants available to encourage the installation of solar panels and geothermal heating in new house construction; the procedures which must be followed to avail of such grants; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35194/08]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin South, Green Party)
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The Greener Homes Scheme, administered by Sustainable Energy Ireland (SEI), provides support to individuals wishing to install renewable energy heating technologies in their homes. Since 2006 the scheme has already helped to establish the supply sector for renewable energy products, services and fuels. Strict product standards and installer training and quality schemes have also supported consumers. New houses were removed from the Greener Homes scheme to reflect the new 'part l' Building Regulations by the Minister for Environment, Heritage and Local Government.

The Revised Building Regulations include a compulsory renewable energy component for all new houses. This will not only ensure that renewables are integrated into the housing stock but will also encourage developers and purchasers to take account of a range of renewable options when purchasing a new home including solar panels and geothermal heating. This is further underpinned by the introduction of the Building Energy Rating which provides information to house purchasers on energy performance.

A call for expression of interest is currently open for the new Low Carbon Housing Programme, which is also administered by SEI. This programme is targeted at housing developments of between five and 15 homes. In addition to having a minimum requirement of a Building Energy Rating of A2 or higher, the Programme also includes provision for onsite generation.