Clare Daly (Dublin North, Socialist Party)
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Question 475: To ask the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the number of applications to the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland for the solar heating grant; the number that have been granted; and the number of same that have been granted despite not meeting application deadlines set by SEAI because of extenuating circumstances. [22926/11]

Pat Rabbitte (Dublin South West, Labour)
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The Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland launched the Greener Homes Scheme in March 2006 to support homeowners who wished to install renewable heating technology in their homes. The technologies supported included Biomass, Heat Pumps and Solar Thermal systems. The scheme closed for applications in May 2011 when solar thermal technology transitioned across to Better Energy: Homes. At that time, just over 29,500 applications for solar technology had been approved.

To date, a total of 22,500 systems have been installed by homeowners with a small number outstanding yet to be completed (approx 550). A total of 1,851 solar grant applications have been approved since the launch of Better Energy in May this year. Applications can be made online and, for eligible homes, approval is immediate with the homeowner having six months to complete the required work and submit payment documentation. Grants are not paid in cases where the homeowner does not meet the terms and conditions of the scheme.