New windows and doors grant will insulate against future energy shocks – Ó Muirí

Take-up on the new windows and door insulation grants is extremely promising and shows that householders want to upgrade their homes if it’s financially achievable, a Fine Gael TD has said.

Deputy Naoise Ó Muirí said, “In recent weeks, we have seen extreme disruption to international energy markets and the broader global economy, highlighting the importance of investing in our own energy independence.

“For the first time, homeowners can now access a grant specifically to upgrade to energy efficient windows and doors. Old draughty windows and doors are a major source of heat loss and a hidden driver of high energy bills. This grant directly tackles that problem for hardworking families.

“Since this grant came on stream on March 2^nd last, there have been more than 7000 applications from householders – that’s an average of 140 applications every day for this enhanced retrofitting scheme.

“The international uncertainty we are seeing could last months, if not years. Investing in our homes is one of the most practical and effective responses available to us. It cuts household costs and reduces our dependence on fossil fuels at the same time.

“It is essential that uptake of home energy efficiency upgrades continues to increase each year and introducing individual grants to enable householders to upgrade their homes gradually makes the works achievable financially.

“The transition to more energy efficient homes must be affordable and practical for families. That has to remain the guiding principle, along with assurances that their subsidised investment will insulate both their homes and their bank balances from any escalation in heating and fuel costs,” Deputy Ó Muirí concluded.