Irish households reliant on life-saving medical equipment are set to benefit from free solar panel systems, following a major expansion of the government’s Solar PV Scheme for Medically Vulnerable Customers.

Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment Darragh O’Brien announced today that all homeowners registered under the life support category of the Priority Services Register with their energy supplier will now qualify for the scheme. The initiative targets homes dependent on electrically powered medical devices such as dialysis machines, ventilators and other assistive technologies.

Originally launched in 2022 as a pilot response to energy challenges stemming from the war in Ukraine, the scheme was initially limited to customers listed with ESB Networks. To date, 470 homes have received solar PV installations under the programme.

“This is about protecting the most vulnerable in our society,” said Minister O’Brien. “Thanks to strong uptake and the positive impact already seen, we’re extending eligibility to all qualifying homeowners, regardless of their energy supplier.”

Under the revised scheme, eligible households will be contacted directly by their electricity provider. No application is required. Homes must have been built and occupied before 31 December 2020 to qualify.

Once identified, a Solar PV company will assess the property’s suitability and schedule installation if approved.

The Department of Climate, Energy and the Environment expects participation to rise significantly in the coming months as energy suppliers begin outreach to newly eligible customers.

Homeowners who rely on life-support equipment are urged to confirm their registration under the Priority Services Register with their energy supplier to ensure inclusion.