Holly Cairns (Cork South West, Social Democrats)
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184. To ask the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment if he will provide his response to the recommended actions on cutting rates of pollution and reducing energy poverty contained in a report (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16833/23]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin Bay South, Green Party)
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As part of the process to inform Climate Action Plan 2023 (CAP23) a call for expert evidence was undertaken. The call sought evidence-based submissions from experts, research organisations and other groups that work in areas relating to climate, environment and energy. Under this call for evidence, a submission was received from the organisation referred to in the Question that was similar to the report cited. A senior representative from this organisation was also interviewed as part of broader 'Climate Conversation' process.

CAP23, which was published in December 2022, sets out a roadmap of actions for Ireland to achieve its climate and energy targets, while also meeting its legally binding emissions reduction commitments. CAP23 is supplemented by the Annex of Actions, which provides further detail on the actions.

With regard to energy poverty, the Energy Poverty Action Plan (EPAP) sets out the range of measures that have been implemented across Government to ensure that those most at risk of energy poverty are supported and protected to adequately heat and power their homes.

The implementation of the EPAP is being monitored by a cross-Departmental Steering Group, chaired by my Department.

Budget 2023 saw the highest ever allocation to support the achievement of our retrofit targets with the SEAI receiving over €500 million. In relation to SEAI residential and community energy upgrade schemes, including the Solar PV scheme, we are increasing Exchequer funding to €356 million, up from €255 million in 2022, with €291 million of this from carbon tax receipts. In addition, Government recently approved a zero rate of VAT for the supply and installation of solar panels for private dwellings from 1 May 2023.

15,500 retrofits were delivered in 2021, and over 27,000 were completed in 2022. This year the target is 37,000, which includes 6,000 free energy upgrades under the SEAI Warmer Homes Scheme.