Dáil Éireann - Volume 494 - 30 September, 1998

Written Answers - Energy Audits.

Mr. Dukes Mr. Dukes

140. Mr. Dukes asked the Minister for Public Enterprise the work, if any, carried out on the now discontinued scheme of grants for energy audits; the number of audits followed up by concrete action; if the benefits of this action were assessed; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13882/98]

Minister of State in the Department of Public Enterprise (Mr. Jacob) Minister of State in the Department of Public Enterprise (Mr. Jacob)

Minister of State in the Department of Public Enterprise (Mr. Jacob): The energy audit grant scheme closed for applications on 31 October, 1997. Under the scheme a total of 424 audits received aggregate grant aid of IR£774,758. A further 16 audits, in respect of which IR£51,434 in grant aid has been approved, are yet to be completed. This final group of audits will be completed before the year end.

There are currently 117 projects with approval under the energy efficiency investment support scheme which stemmed from audits carried out under the energy audit grant scheme.

An evaluation of the energy audit grant scheme was undertaken by the Irish Energy Centre following its closure in October, 1997. Approximately half of all the applications for funding under the investment grant scheme originated with an audit funded under the audit grant scheme.

It is estimated by the Irish Energy Centre that on completion of all such projects aggregate investment in energy efficient technologies will amount to IR£16 million, including European Regional Development Fund support of IR£3.57 million. The resulting annual energy savings are estimated at approximately IR£4 million.

Dáil Éireann 494 Written Answers Energy Audits.

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