Kieran O'Donnell (Limerick City, Fine Gael)
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122. To ask the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the status of the better energy warmer homes scheme; and if he is considering adding additional measures to the scheme such as solar panels and heat pumps. [62858/22]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin Bay South, Green Party)
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The Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) administer schemes delivering free energy upgrades for eligible homeowners in low-income households who are most at risk of energy poverty. Since 2000, over 145,000 free upgrades have been supported. So far this year over 4,000 homes have received free upgrades under SEAI energy poverty schemes at an average cost of €18,750 per home.

Earlier this year, the SEAI launched a pilot to inform the appropriate approach to increasing the number of B2 upgrades and heat pumps installed under the Warmer Homes Scheme. It is intended that this pilot will continue into 2023.

Solar panels are not currently provided under the free upgrade scheme. However, grants are available separately for the installation of solar PV and solar thermal panels in homes.In addition, as part of the response to support consumers under the National Energy Security Framework, SEAI will introduce a targeted scheme for the installation of solar PV panels for vulnerable customers/households. SEAI has indicated that it is currently finalising the scheme following consultation with key stakeholders including the Commission for the Regulation of Utilities (CRU), ESB Networks (ESBN), the Money Advice and Budgeting Service (MABS), and publication of the final details will follow this process.