More supports for households who sell energy back to the grid – Ó Muirí

Bigger supports for households who make the switch to solar would alleviate some of the pressure with rising energy costs, a Fine Gael TD has said.

Deputy Naoise Ó Muirí said Government must consider increasing the income tax exemption under the Microgeneration Support Scheme (MSS), which allows households to sell excess electricity back to the grid.

Currently, the tax exemption is €400 per year on the income earned from doing so.

Deputy Ó Muirí said: “The extension of this exemption to December 2028 in the last budget was welcome, but it is not enough.

“As more households invest in solar panels and begin exporting electricity, an increasing number are reaching the €400 limit. Once that threshold is exceeded, any additional income is taxed, effectively penalising families for generating more clean energy.

“Government must consider increasing this cap to €600, to reflect current energy prices and recognise the growing role microgeneration plays in delivering our decarbonisation and energy security goals.

“Targeted and practical changes like this will help move us permanently away from fossil fuels and towards renewable energy.

“We know where energy prices are going. It is vital that we take a proactive rather than reactive approach to decarbonisation, and supporting microgeneration is a practical way to help households reduce energy bills while contributing to a cleaner, more resilient energy system.

“Increasing the microgeneration income tax exemption would send a clear signal to families across the country that their efforts to decarbonise and become energy independent will be supported,” concluded Deputy Ó Muirí.