Lucinda Creighton (Dublin South East, Fine Gael)
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Question 210: To ask the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the reason the fuel poverty strategy promised for 2009 in the programme for Government has not been published; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37023/10]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin South, Green Party)
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I am working closely with the Ministers for Social Protection and Environment, Heritage and Local Government, and others on the inter-Departmental Steering Group to finalise the affordable energy strategy, which, due to the complexity of data being gathered, has necessitated a more intensive analysis than was previously envisioned. However, I expect to be in a position to bring the strategy to Government soon.

This strategy will set out a framework to ensure that households can achieve affordable access to their energy requirements through a range of practical initiatives and programmes designed to reduce the demand for energy, thus protecting those considered most at risk of energy poverty.

The strategy applies a holistic approach, combining national and geographically focussed actions in the areas of income supports, targeted and tailored energy efficiency improvements, and advice and information.

The strategy also reviews existing definitional constructs and will identify an appropriate methodology for the ongoing measurement and reporting of energy poverty in Ireland.

Provisional findings suggest that dwelling age is a key indicator of energy poverty. As a result, enhancing the energy efficiency of homes through structural improvements will remain a pivotal action in the strategy to address long-term energy affordability. This year will see energy efficiency upgrades delivered to at least 22,500 homes, bringing the total number of homes upgraded since 2000 to nearly 60,000 by year end.