97. Deputy Jackie Cahill asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications further to Parliamentary Question No. 129 of 23 May 2024, if there has been any outcome or further correspondence from the SEAI with regard to his enquiry about further supports for households with properties currently deemed unsuitable for works under the scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29096/24]

The Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) operates the Warmer Homes Scheme on behalf of my Department. Delivering free energy upgrades to lower-income households and reducing the waiting times for the Warmer Homes Scheme is a top priority for my Department and the SEAI. My officials continue to work with the SEAI to maximise and accelerate the output of free energy upgrades provided under this important scheme.

Budget 2024 allocated a record €210 million for this scheme which is delivering an average of 550 upgrades per month this year. At 860 upgrades, June 2024 saw the highest number of homes completed in a month under the scheme since it was expanded to provide deeper upgrades.

The scheme was expanded in 2018 to provide more extensive energy upgrades beyond attic and cavity measures including solid wall insulation and windows, with the aim of improving thermal comfort for vulnerable householders. Prior to then approximately 40% of eligible homes were excluded from receiving works under the scheme due to the restriction of measures available. Since this change the share of eligible homes not receiving works has decreased to c.15%. It is important to note that this figure includes: homes that may have previously received works under the scheme; homes that are already at a certain level of efficiency and do not require further works of the type provided by the scheme; and homes where applications are cancelled on instruction from the applicant.

My Department is working with the SEAI to determine whether additional mechanisms could be introduced to further reduce the number of cancelled applications. This is currently being examined in the context of the next Energy Poverty Action Plan.