Eamon Ryan (Dublin Bay South, Green Party)
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The Warmth and Wellbeing pilot scheme was an interdepartmental and inter-agency project led by my Department, in collaboration with the Department of Health (DoH), the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) and the Health Service Executive (HSE). The project was established to produce research on how extensive energy efficiency upgrades to homes can improve the health and wellbeing of people living with chronic respiratory conditions.

The London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM) were recruited to carry out independent analysis of the health impacts. Participants’ health and wellbeing was assessed and tracked over a 3-year period following their upgrade. The pilot, provided fully funded upgrades to 1,600 homes including attic and wall insulation, window and door replacement and heating system upgrades where needed.

The research shows that retrofits have resulted in measured improved comfort in the homes as well as improved health and well-being scores across multiple dimensions. These included:

• Warmer, more comfortable homes, with heating systems that are easier to control;
• Improved physical health including reduced pain;
• Improved mental health and wellbeing including reduced feelings of anxiety and depression;
• Reduced visits to GP and A&E and fewer incidences requiring hospitalisation;
• Reduced prescription drug usage for their respiratory conditions;
• Being more comfortable inviting other to their homes.

The scheme experienced significant delays due to complications associated with GDPR, Brexit and the COVID-19 emergency. The learnings from the project are already influencing policy. This includes mainstreaming elements of the project into our national energy poverty retrofit scheme – the Warmer Homes scheme. Working with vulnerable homeowners has allowed my Department and SEAI to improve the scheme for everyone, keeping the customer at the forefront of the process.

The scheme was also featured in a report by the World Green Building Council as an example of international best practice in starting a renovation wave.

I intend the publish the final report next month (May, 2024) .