Blistering weather highlights need for grants for home cooling – Ó Muirí

SEAI grant schemes must urgently be updated to reflect the growing need for home cooling as well as heating, a Fine Gael TD has said.

Deputy Naoise Ó Muirí said the extremely hot temperatures experienced across the country this week have highlighted the greater need for air-conditioning in our homes.

He says the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) needs to update its rules so grants currently available for heat pumps are applicable to cooling pumps.

Deputy Ó Muirí explained: “This week’s heatwave has demonstrated just how ill-equipped Irish homes are to cope with higher temperatures. With heatwaves like the current one becoming more frequent in Ireland and around the world, there is a need to factor in air-conditioning and cooling mechanisms in our homes.

“The SEAI heat energy pump grant is designed to support the installation of systems that provide heating for homes. The grant does not cover the cooling function of heat pump or air-to-air systems.

“Bizarrely, there are heat pumps which also have a cooling function, but that must be deactivated to be applicable for the grant. This is counter-intuitive and completely limits temperature controlling options.

“Cooling is no longer optional for homes. Modern building standards can actually make homes warmer. Our homes in Ireland do not have the features other countries have, such as shutters or awnings. We should be facilitating air conditioning by renewable sources, such as solar and air/heat pumps – not blocking it.

“This is becoming a public health issue, and in extreme cases, a matter of life and death. We have already seen the tragic impact of heat-related deaths in recent weeks, and Ireland is not immune to these risks.

“While improving building design to meet our climate targets is essential, it makes no sense to block efficient modern systems that can both heat and cool, particularly for older people and those with medical conditions. Government policy should reflect this reality.

“SEAI grant schemes must be updated immediately to support technologies that help people stay safe and comfortable year-round in a changing climate,” concluded Deputy Ó Muirí.