Bridging the Gap Between Energy Poverty and Energy Renovation

Friends of the Earth launches significant research on energy poverty and home retrofitting undertaken by the Irish Green Building Council.

This new research comes a week after the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD) was passed in the European Parliament, which will put an obligation on member states to ensure that financial incentives for energy renovations are targeted towards vulnerable households, and to ensure that groups such as social housing tenants and tenants in the private rental sector benefit from energy renovation schemes. 

One of the root causes of energy poverty is low energy performance of buildings, and the report recommends that the government develop a comprehensive approach to energy renovations that effectively tackle energy poverty. 

Key Recommendations:

• Set up an extensive network of independent energy renovation advisors to directly support households, especially those at risk of energy poverty, in navigating the renovation process by improving accessibility and providing tailored information.

• Review and update SEAI’s overall mandate to ensure a stronger focus is placed on aiding vulnerable households and taking a more holistic approach to energy upgrades. This is to guarantee fairness and make the most of retrofit funding.

• Increase funding for energy renovation of social housing & AHBs to improve living conditions for households most at-risk of energy poverty and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.

• Review funding mechanisms to address energy poverty ensuring they target those who need it most, include renewable energy technologies, and are adaptable to the needs of energy-poor households.

The report comes off the back of intensive stakeholder engagement that involved interviews, workshops, and collaboration with industry, government, community organisations and anti-poverty groups.