Peadar Tóibín (Meath West, Aontú)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

92. To ask the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the number of grants allocated under the national retrofitting scheme. [61734/22]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin Bay South, Green Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

In February, the Government approved 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 February, demand across the SEAI retrofit schemes has been exceptionally high and for its part, the retrofit sector has mobilised in response to the greater level of interest. Figures from SEAI indicate that, to end of November:

-Over 22,800 home energy upgrades have been completed – a 69% increase on the same period last year.

-Over 4,000 homes been upgraded under SEAI energy poverty schemes – a 107% increase on the same period last year.

-Over 7,600 homes have been upgraded to a BER of B2 or better – a 91% increase on the same period last year.

In addition, over 46,300 applications for support have been received, equating to a 152% increase on the same period last year. My Department is working with the SEAI to build on this strong performance to maximise output this year and the pipeline into 2023.