Jennifer Whitmore (Wicklow, Social Democrats)
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55. To ask the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the status of the new scheme for the installation of photovoltaic panels for households that have a high reliance on electricity for medical reasons; the reason for the delay of this programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [63176/22]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin Bay South, Green Party)
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The National Energy Security Framework (NESF), sets out Ireland's response to the challenges of ensuring the ongoing and long-term security of affordable energy supply in the context of the war in Ukraine. It coordinates work connected to energy security across the electricity, gas and oil sectors and sets out a ‘Whole-of Government’ response to the challenges posed to energy security and energy affordability. 

Under Response 8 of the NESF,  the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) is charged with the introduction of a targeted scheme for the installation of solar PV panels for vulnerable customers/households, who are critically dependent on electrically powered equipment. This includes, but is not limited to, life protecting devices, assistive technologies to support independent living and medical equipment.

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) and electricity suppliers and publication of the final details will follow this process. 

The SEAI has established a specific email address for queries from Oireachtas members, oireachtas@seai.ie, so that such queries can be addressed promptly, in line with SEAI’s objective to deliver services to the highest standards.