Peter Fitzpatrick (Louth, Independent)
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186. To ask the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment if grant aid is available to community centres, GAA clubs and local youth clubs for the installation of solar panels; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46056/22]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin Bay South, Green Party)
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The Communities Energy Grant (CEG) Scheme is designed to encourage and support home retrofit, as well as energy efficiency upgrades in commercial, public (including schools), community and voluntary sector facilities. All projects include a community benefit and include a cross-sectoral approach.

The Scheme provides funding for a range of improvements to existing buildings. These include the installation of insulation, heat pump systems, replacement windows/doors, solar Photo-Voltaic technology, energy-efficient lighting, and energy monitors, as well as other energy upgrades.

Demand for the CEG Scheme has been very strong since the launch of this year’s Call for Projects in March. To date, 14 contracts with a grant value of over €35million have been issued by the SEAI (Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland) and a further 12 applications are currently under evaluation within the SEAI. All of which points to a strong pipeline of works under the scheme for the remainder of this year and into 2023.

In addition to the CEG Scheme, there are a range of Government supports for the installation of solar PV are available for homeowners and businesses of all sizes.