Michael Murphy (Tipperary South, Fine Gael)
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205. To ask the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment if he plans to amend the current eligibility criteria for the heat pump system grant, where homeowners with existing heat pump systems, that were grant-supported previously, are now not eligible for further grant support for upgrades or replacements; if he will consider providing exemptions for older homes that require essential upgrades to their existing heat pump systems; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9008/25]

Darragh O'Brien (Dublin Fingal East, Fianna Fail)
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The Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) manage a number of residential and community energy upgrade grant support schemes on behalf of my Department. These schemes have terms and conditions in place to ensure the transparent administration of public monies.

It is important to note that the grants available through the SEAI aim to maximise emissions reductions and deliver energy savings for the widest range of homeowners possible. The grants which are available, and their respective eligibility criteria, were designed to deliver significant energy savings to homeowners at the best value for money for the Exchequer. Since the funds that are available for energy efficiency are limited, the Department must prioritise their use where they will have the most impact.

Therefore, regarding grant support for the installation of a heat pump, grants will only be paid in relation to homes where solid fuel, oil/gas boiler or electrical heating (other than heat pump) is present, or where there is no heating in situ. There is currently no plan to amend these criteria.

However, my Department and the SEAI are committed to ensuring that grants are kept under review taking account of the overarching need to build a much bigger home upgrade sector, evolving science, innovation, evolving technology and other relevant factors.