Violet-Anne Wynne (Clare, Sinn Fein)
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195. To ask the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the number of households in County Clare that have applied for SEAI grants since the latest tranche opened; the number that have been commenced; the number that have been completed in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [61403/22]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin Bay South, Green Party)
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My Department funds a number of grant schemes, administered by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) to support homeowners to improve the energy efficiency of their properties. In February, the Government launched a package of supports to make it easier and more affordable for homeowners to undertake home energy upgrades, for warmer, healthier and more comfortable homes, with lower energy bills. Free upgrades are available for households at risk of energy poverty under the Better Energy Warmer Homes Scheme. Since the launch of the enhanced grant schemes, demand across the country has been very strong. Figures from SEAI indicate that, as of end-October:

- Almost 41,000 applications for support have been received – a 152% increase on the same period last year.

- Over 18,400 home energy upgrades have been completed – a 59% increase on the same period last year.

- Over 3,600 homes been upgraded under SEAI energy poverty schemes – a 122% increase on the same period last year.

My Department is working with the SEAI to build on this strong performance with a robust pipeline of activity planned for the rest of the year and into 2023.

The specific breakdown of information sought by the Deputy is not readily available in my Department. However, the SEAI operates a specific email address for these types of enquiries from members of the Oireachtas - oireachtas@seai.ie