A Government grant scheme for the installation of renewable heat sources in domestic residences is to be expanded to clubhouses, community halls and commercial premises.
Grant aid of up to 30 per cent of the overall cost of installation will now be available for solar, geothermal and other cleaner heating sources.
Minister for Communications, Marine & Natural Resources Noel Dempsey said: "The scheme will for the first time allow community, voluntary groups and schools to apply for funding, alongside commercial and industrial premises."
Mr Dempsey said the grants - which will be administered by Sustainable Energy Ireland - will save more than 160,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions every year.
He said the revised programme will see renewable heating systems put in up to 700 commercial and community buildings.
"Scheme such as this demonstrate to people that renewable energy technologies work at a practical level and facilitate the further development of Ireland's solar and geothermal technology markets," Mr Dempsey added.
Details of the scheme and application forms will be available on the Sustainable Energy Ireland website (www.sei.ie) from today.