Rory Hearne: Retrofitting Ireland's ageing housing stock must be a Government priority

Those who can afford retrofits and upgrades can reduce energy consumption and bills, while those who cannot face higher, and still inflating, fuel prices, says Rory Hearne

If Government is going to be serious about a just transition and meeting climate targets, it will have to significantly increase State investment in retrofitting.

The escalating cost of living crisis means lower and middle-income households are less likely to be able to afford retrofits, posing further challenges in achieving climate change targets.

In addition, it will lead to a worsening equality gap as those who can afford to invest in retrofits and upgrades can reduce energy consumption and bills, while those who cannot are left exposed to higher and further inflating gas and electricity prices.