Ó Múiri talks up boiler scrappage scheme

Grants to help households cut their energy bills and move away from fossil fuel reliance will make a real difference in every community, a Fine Gael TD has said.

Dublin Bay North TD Naoise Ó Muirí said the package will include a €2,000 boiler scrappage scheme and a €600 home battery grant will make it easier and cheaper to switch to cleaner energy.

“People are under real pressure with energy costs, and they want practical help to bring their bills down. This package delivers that,” the Fine Gael TD said.

Around 700,000 homes still rely on home heating oil, and many households want to cut their emissions.

Rising energy bills are encouraging people to consider moving away from fossil fuels towards cleaner, cheaper alternatives, but the upfront cost of replacing heating systems is still a major barrier.

“Schemes like this will support families and communities in transitioning from fossil fuels and shows that Fine Gael is committed to cutting the cost of energy which will help people who work hard to get ahead, not just get by,” Ó Muirí explained.

“The Programme for Government commits to targeting older homes still using oil to switch to renewable heating systems, while also considering sustainable alternatives for households where deep retrofits aren’t feasible,” he said.

The Northside TD said, “during the last general election, Fine Gael’s manifesto committed to ‘target older homes still using oil to switch to renewable heating systems, lowering carbon footprints and costs.”

Under the measures, solar PV and battery storage will be offered as standard under the fully funded Warmer Homes Scheme. Grants for solar, attic and cavity insulation will be enhanced for certain social welfare recipients and for homes in HAP and RAS tenancies.

Depending on the measure installed, households could save up to €878 a year. Businesses availing of enhanced solar PV supports could cut annual energy costs by up to €300,000.

“Those most exposed to high energy costs, including lower-income households and medically vulnerable customers, will get the most help. That’s how it should be,” Deputy Ó Muirí said.

The package was developed through the National Energy Affordability Taskforce and builds on more than €1.4 billion in energy affordability measures introduced since March. Most measures will open from October, with a number to follow in the first quarter of 2027.

“The Government is acting on energy costs, and I would encourage anyone who thinks they might qualify to check the SEAI website as details are published. Lower bills and a more secure energy supply are within reach,” Ó Muirí added.