Tax relief boost for energy savers

PEOPLE who attempt to make their homes more energy efficient will be rewarded with standard-rate tax relief on costs up to €10,000.

Finance Minister Brian Lenihan announced the €30m rare positive move — potentially the Green Party’s last major impact on Government policy — amid a string of negative budget cuts, stating that it could result in long-term state energy cost savings.

A list of “approved works” which will be covered by the scheme are due to be decided in the coming days before the Finance Bill is put before the Dáil, with thousands of people expected to benefit from the plan.