The European Union has withdrawn a controversial rule change that would have blocked elderly homeowners from receiving grants to replace broken oil and gas boilers, following significant criticism from advocacy groups. The decision ensures continued support for older people facing heating system failures in their homes.
The original rule change, which would have affected private housing, was initially implemented by the government in response to new EU legislation aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions. However, the policy has now been revised, allowing homeowners to access financial support through the Housing Aid for Older People Grant to purchase second-hand boilers as replacements.
Age Action, a prominent advocacy group, welcomed the policy reversal, having previously warned that the original plan could leave elderly residents “trapped” in increasingly cold homes. The organization highlighted particular concerns about Ireland’s poorly insulated one-off housing stock, which often requires more energy to heat effectively.
According to The Journal, the grant program, designed for individuals aged 66 and older living in substandard housing conditions, will now maintain flexibility in heating solutions. While the government continues its broader policy of phasing out fossil fuel boilers, the revised approach allows for various options, including electric heaters and wood pellet systems, alongside traditional boiler replacements.
Nat O’Connor, Age Action’s senior policy specialist, emphasized that while heat pumps are part of the future, they aren’t suitable for all situations, particularly in poorly insulated homes. The organization estimates it could take 20-25 years to make Ireland’s housing stock sustainable, necessitating interim solutions for elderly residents.
The updated policy acknowledges the need for a ‘just transition’ in climate action, balancing environmental goals with the immediate needs of vulnerable populations. Grants will now cover replacement boilers installed by qualified contractors, with previous approvals for fossil fuel boiler replacements made before January 1st remaining valid.