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SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL

MEETING OF SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL

Monday, November 14, 2022

QUESTION NO. 29

QUESTION: Councillor Lyn Hagin Meade

To ask the Chief Executive if a social housing tenant wishes to reduce their Electricity bill, can they avail of solar PV units for their home?

REPLY:

Photovoltaic (PV) panels are typically installed at the time of construction in all-new build Council homes to achieve the optimal building energy rating (BER) while the national Energy Efficiency Retrofit Programme (EERP) is being rolled out across all local authorities to bring building energy ratings of existing housing stock up to desired minimum B2 BER.  This is usually achieved through replacement of windows and doors, improving insulation and installation of energy efficient heat pump systems and does not generally include provision for installation of PV units.

Existing tenants wishing to install PV units or carry out other energy upgrade works at their own expense will be facilitated where possible butt they should contact the Housing Maintenance section in advance to discuss their plans.  Under the Council tenancy agreement, all alterations, including installation of PV units, required the written permission of the Council before any proposed works can commence.  Only SEAI-registered contractors with a proven track record and appropriate insurances will be permitted to carry out such works.  Tenants may also be required to demonstrate their ability to maintain the installation on an ongoing basis at no cost to the Council and be aware that if they were to move to another home, they may be liable for reinstatement of the property to its original condition.