Landlords may get rebates for energy efficiency

REBATES for landlords who make their rented properties more energy efficient are suggested by a state advisory body as a use for revenue generated by the controversial carbon tax.

Under the scheme, up to €1,500 per property would be returned to landlords who upgrade their properties and rent them to welfare recipients and other people receiving rent allowance.

The carbon tax, which will soon be levied on solid fuels like oil and coal as part of the country’s commitment to tackling carbon emissions and climate change, is expected to cost the average household an extra €246 per year, netting the Government more than €500 million annually.