Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 27 April 2023
211. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Finance if he will confirm that provision will be made to allow anyone who installed solar panels prior to 1 May 2023 to obtain a refund for the VAT they have previously paid, given that the VAT rate on the supply and installation of solar panels will drop to zero for private dwellings on 1 May 2023; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20064/23]
View answerAs the Deputy will be aware VAT operates on two monthly cycles, consequently the Dáil passed a Financial Resolution on 18 April 2023 to allow this important measure in relation to solar panels to come into effect on 1 May which is the start of the next VAT period.
Were I to have waited until the Finance Bill passes through the Oireachtas and is signed into law, the measure would not come into effect until 1 July. In order to prevent market dislocation by an extended lead in period for the measure I secured cabinet approval for the use of a Financial Resolution to bring forward the implementation date to 1 May. The zero rate of VAT for solar panels can only operate from this date forward. I have no discretion to apply this measure on a retrospective basis.
