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SEAI Medically Vulnerable Solar PV System
The SEAI is funding the installation of a 2kWp solar PV system on homes, that are suitable, for those people listed on the ESB Priority Services Register.
What is the scheme?
The SEAI is funding the installation of a 2kWp solar PV system on homes, that are suitable, for those people listed on the ESB Priority Services Register.
Who is a Vulnerable Customer?
A Vulnerable Customer is a person who is critically dependent on electrically powered equipment. This includes (but is not limited to) life protecting devices, assistive technologies to support independent living and medical equipsment, or particularly vulnerable to disconnection during winter months for reasons of advanced age or physical, sensory, intellectual or mental health. (The above definition is taken from the Commission for Regulation of Utilities (CRU).)
Priority Register
If you have been included in the life support category of the Priority Services Register from before 22 November 2022 but have changed energy provider since then, this may be the cause of some confusion, but it is not a reason for exclusion. You just need to clarify with your current energy provider that you were on the Register through your previous provider, and, if needed, the SEAI can step in to confirm this.
Your free system includes
5 x 400w Solar Panels
1 x String Inverter
Full Installation
Eligibility for the Scheme
You may be eligible to participate in the SEAI MV Scheme if:
How to Apply
If you meet the criteria and your energy provider is taking part in the scheme, they will contact you to ask if you’re interested.
If you say yes:
SEAI Medically Vulnerable Solar PV System
Frequently Asked Questions
Applying for a grant and planning solar panel works can feel a bit overwhelming, especially if it’s your first time dealing with this kind of scheme. We’ve answered some of the questions people most often ask about grants for solar panels.
Grant rules, eligibility criteria, payment rates and application processes can change. Always check the most up‑to‑date details on the official SEAI and Citizens Information websites.
What is the Solar PV Scheme for Medically Vulnerable Customers?
The Solar PV Scheme for Medically Vulnerable Customers provides a free solar PV system for households where someone relies on life‑protecting electrical medical equipment. This is a separate scheme from the general Solar Electricity Grant.
Who runs this scheme?
This scheme is managed through the Priority Services Register of participating electricity providers. It is not something you apply for through the SEAI. The following energy suppliers have confirmed their participation:
- Bord Gáis
- Energia
- SSE Airtricity
- Electric Ireland
- Flogas
How do I know if I might qualify as medically vulnerable?
You may be considered for the scheme if:
- You, or someone in your household, uses life‑protecting electrical medical equipment at home, for example, a home dialysis machine.
- You are registered with your electricity supplier in the “life support” category of the Priority Services Register.
If you are not sure whether you are on this register, you can contact your electricity provider.
What is the Priority Services Register and the “life support” category?
- On the Priority Services Register, and
- Specifically listed in the life support category.
The Priority Services Register is a list that electricity suppliers keep of customers who are particularly vulnerable, including those who rely on critical medical equipment.
The life support category is for people who uselife‑protecting medical devices that need electricity.
Being on this register means your electricity supplier knows that a power cut or disconnection could be especially serious for you.
If you are a kidney patient on home dialysis, you should check that you are:
Your renal team or medical social worker may be able to support you with this if you feel unsure.
How does the Solar PV Scheme for Medically Vulnerable Customers work?
- You must be registered in the life support category of the Priority Services Register.
- Your electricity provider must be participating in the scheme.
- Visit your home.
- Assess if it is suitable for a solar PV system.
- Install it free of charge if it is suitable.
There are a number of conditions to meet to be eligible.
If both of these apply, your energy provider will contact you to ask if you are interested.
If you say you are interested:
Your participating electricity provider will arrange for a Solar PV company to:
Is the solar PV system free for medically vulnerable customers?
Yes, under this specific scheme:
- The assessment and the installation of the solar PV system are free if you are accepted.
- You should not be asked to pay for the solar PV system as part of the Solar PV Scheme for Medically Vulnerable Customers.
If anyone asks you for money under the name of this scheme, pause and double‑check with your electricity provider.
Does my home need to meet any conditions?
Yes. To be considered under this scheme:
- Your home must be built and occupied before 1 January 2021.
If your home is newer than this, you may still be able to explore other solar supports (such as the SEAI Solar Electricity Grant), but the medically vulnerable free PV scheme has this specific cut‑off date.
