Irish Energy Minister Eamon Ryan has said the €50m Home Energy Saving Scheme is 'open for business', for both contractors and homeowners alike.

From today Sustainable Energy Ireland will accept applications from householders wishing to save money and energy by insulating their properties.

Minister Ryan said: "Since I announced that I had secured the funding for this scheme, there has been an unprecedented level of interest from the public. Sustainable Energy Ireland has received 94,000 calls and website visits.

-- Advertisement --

"SEI has assured me that from today applications received online will be processed in under three days. I am pleased that so soon after the initial announcement we are up and running, with all the proper procedures in place."

The Minister called on more qualified contractors to come on board to help deliver the scheme.

"I would urge contractors to register with SEI and secure a major business boost for themselves in the process.

"The level of public interest is such that contractors can be assured of work for themselves and for new employees through this government scheme."

Insulation is the single best way of saving money on energy. This scheme could see homeowners save up to €700 annually on their electricity bills.

Construction workers could benefit from the thousands of jobs this scheme will create.

"It's good news for our pockets, for the economy and for the environment," said Mr Ryan.

(PR/JM)