Ciarán Lynch (Cork South Central, Labour)
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Question 431: To ask the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the incentives available for persons installing solar energy solutions on private homes or commercial buildings; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6011/09]

Ciarán Lynch (Cork South Central, Labour)
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Question 433: To ask the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if it is intended to provide a legislative framework to encourage or require the installation of photo voltaic/thermal panels on private homes or business premises; if in the future new constructions will be required to incorporate renewable energy solutions; the incentives available to encourage the use of renewable energy solutions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6054/09]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin South, Green Party)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 431 and 433 together.

The initiation of a pilot trial by Sustainable Energy Ireland (SEI) of micro and small-scale generation technologies is designed to investigate and test technical, market and regulatory issues associated with the deployment of micro-generation technologies including installation, network connection and operation, and generation. Grant aid for up to 50 pilot installations, will be provided as part of the programme.

A call for expression of interest is currently open for the Low Carbon Housing Programme administered by SEI. In addition to having a minimum requirement of a Building Energy Rating of A2 or higher the targets also include provision for onsite generation.

The Revised Building Regulations brought into force in July 2008 now 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 individuals to consider a range of renewable options when purchasing a new home. This is further underpinned by the introduction of the Building Energy Rating which provides information to house purchasers on energy performance and to which renewables energy systems will contribute.

The Greener Homes Scheme, administered by SEI, provides grant support to individuals wishing to install renewable energy heating technologies in their homes. This scheme, in operation since early 2006, has already established a very strong supply industry for renewable energy products, services and fuels while the application of strict product standards and installer training and quality schemes has ensured that consumers are informed in relation to their choices.

The Renewable Heat (ReHeat) and CHP Programmes, also provide assistance for the deployment of renewable heating systems in industrial, commercial, public and community premises.