Joe Carey (Clare, Fine Gael)
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131. To ask the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment if he will recommend to the SEAI the need to modify the grant scheme available for the installation of solar panels on old solid stone houses given that many of these dwellings due to their age and architectural design are severely challenged in attaining the C2 level required to qualify for the grant; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1087/22]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin Bay South, Green Party)
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The Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) administers the solar PV grant scheme to help homeowners install rooftop solar PV equipment. A post-works BER (Building Energy Rating) C standard is a minimum requirement for support under the scheme. However, this scheme will transition to the Micro-generation Support Scheme (MSS) as part of the phased introduction of that scheme in 2022. The final design of the MSS was approved by Government on 21 December 2021, and the scheme will open on a phased basis in 2022. The MSS will offer supports for new installations, including solar PV panels, in the form of a capital grant for domestic and small non-domestic applicants, or a premium export tariff for larger non-domestic applicants. Home-owners will continue to be able to apply to the SEAI for a grant towards the cost of installing equipment under the MSS. In 2022, grant amounts under the MSS will be at the same level per kW as the existing SEAI solar PV grant scheme. Under the MSS, buildings will not have to meet a minimum BER standard, even after any new equipment is installed, and homes built pre-2021 will be eligible.