Rise in demand for retrofits must be matched with resourcing or risk missing targets – Farrell

Residential retrofitting targets will be put at risk if adequate resourcing and support is not continually made available, according to Fine Gael TD Alan Farrell.

Deputy Farrell, a member of the Oireachtas Committee on Environment & Climate Action member, said: “Retrofitting targets have been a key component under Climate Action Plans published by the Government in recent years and to date there has been strong public interest in residential retrofits. It is imperative that we have the services and supports to match this demand.

“Key to delivering access to retrofitting, is the development of ‘One Stop Shops’ which provide an end-to-end service for individuals seeking a residential retrofit.

“It was hoped that 20 of these One Stop Shops would be operational by the end of 2022, however, while there are several in the registration process, only 12 providers are operational today.”

Deputy Farrell continued: “The SEAI state that the normal waiting time from the time of application to having the works completed ranges between 18 – 24 months. This is a considerable amount of time that can even be extended due to demand, we must work to reduce this waiting time, or risk disincentivising consumers.”

“Last year, 27,000 home energy upgrades were carried out, however in 2022 alone, over 50,000 applications were received, this is a significant rise in demand, equating to an increase of 150% when compared to applications received in 2021.

“This rise in demand must be matched with resourcing in order to avoid delays to works being carried out.

“Adequate investment is also required to promote and encourage people to take up careers in construction and retrofitting. I know there is a body of work underway by the Minister for Further and Higher Education Simon Harris to ensure we have the number of professionals working in construction and green skills needed in order to reach our climate targets as well as housing targets under Housing for All.

“Retrofit training centres are being opened across the country. There is a major focus on apprenticeships, including providing a financial incentive to any employer who takes on an apprentice to make it easier for businesses to get involved.

“Three Centres of Excellence for NZEB (Nearly Zero Energy Building) and retrofitting training are opened in Waterford-Wexford ETB, Laois-Offaly ETB and Limerick-Clare ETB. Courses are also being delivered in Cork ETB and Mayo-Sligo-Leitrim ETB, and further courses will be provided through a sixth centre in Finglas.

“I am encouraged that record funding is also being given to the SEAI for residential and community retrofits, and that a target of 37,000 retrofits has been set for 2023, however, we must ensure that there is sufficient supply to achieve these goals. It is essential that the Minister redoubles his efforts to meet our retrofitting targets and maintain the integrity of the Climate Action Plan.”