Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 3 October 2023
148. Deputy John Lahart asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if he has any plans to assist those in receipt of the State pension with the annual cost of servicing their gas/oil boilers, which can cost an average of €170 per annum at present prices; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42131/23]
View answerMy Department funds a number of grant schemes, administered by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) to support homeowners to improve the energy efficiency of their properties.
SEAI grants for homeowners are focused towards those measures which will be most effective in reducing energy use and reducing our carbon emissions. In order to move away from the installation of gas or oil heating systems, grant supports are available for installing heat pumps in place of fossil fuel heating systems, rather than for replacement or repair of gas or oil boilers systems.
There are other grants and schemes available from Government that could be of assistance where there is an urgent need for home repairs. These include the Department of Social Protection Urgent Needs Payment available through the Community Welfare Service at local DSP offices, and the Housing Adaptation Grant Scheme which is administered by the Local Authorities.
