Eamon Ryan: Scheme will create jobs

FOLLOWING an unprecedented level of interest from the public, the €50 million home energy saving scheme — aimed at improving insulation levels and heating efficiency in homes — is now available.

In the six weeks since the scheme was first announced, up to 94,000 homeowners rang Sustainable Energy Ireland (SEI) for information or else checked out the grant scheme on its website.

According to Energy Minister Eamon Ryan, a householder who fully avails of the insulation scheme could save up to €700 each year on their energy bills.

“Insulation is the single best way of saving money on energy. This scheme will see homeowners save up to €700 annually. This, coupled with recent reductions in electricity prices is great news for consumers.”

The minister said construction workers will benefit from the thousands of jobs this scheme will create.

“It’s good news for our pockets, for the economy and for the environment,” he said.

However, in spite of the employment crisis in the construction sector, too few qualified contractors have registered for the scheme. Due to the sheer volume of householders who are expected to apply for the grants, SEI is appealing for more contractors to complete the registration form. Only registered contractors can be used in the scheme.

Mr Ryan said SEI is emphasising quality throughout the scheme to ensure homeowners get the best workmanship and value for money.

“The level of public interest is such that contractors can be assured of work for themselves and for new employees through this Government scheme,” he said.

SEI said that all online applications received from today onwards will be processed in under three days.

Householders and contractors can apply online at www.sei/hes or by calling the dedicated phone line on 1850 927000.