Fianna Fáil TD for Louth Erin McGreehan has welcomed a new €10 million Government scheme designed to help households replace older, high emitting cars with new electric vehicles.
The new ICE2EV Scheme, announced by Minister for Transport Darragh O’Brien, will open for applications on 1 July and will provide eligible motorists with €5,000 towards the purchase of a new electric vehicle when they permanently remove an older petrol or diesel vehicle from the road.
The support is in addition to the existing €3,500 SEAI electric vehicle grant, bringing the total available support to €8,500.
Deputy McGreehan said the scheme will help families across Louth make the switch to cleaner and cheaper transport.
“This is a practical measure that will help households move away from older, more expensive-to-run vehicles and make the transition to electric vehicles more affordable.
“Many families would like to switch to an electric vehicle but the upfront cost is a barrier.
“By providing up to €8,500 in support, this scheme will help families make the transition while also reducing emissions and improving air quality.”
Deputy McGreehan said the scheme recognises the reality that many households continue to rely on older vehicles because replacing them is financially challenging.
“Older vehicles tend to be the most polluting and often the most expensive to maintain.
“This scheme provides an incentive to replace those vehicles with cleaner alternatives while putting money back into the pockets of motorists through lower running costs.”
Under the scheme, applicants can receive €5,000 where they permanently remove a qualifying vehicle registered in 2013 or earlier and purchase a new battery electric vehicle.
To qualify, the vehicle being scrapped must have been owned by the applicant for at least 12 months, hold a valid NCT certificate or one expired by no more than six months, and have been taxed and insured during the previous six months.
Deputy McGreehan also welcomed the Government’s continued investment in charging infrastructure.
“Alongside supporting people to purchase electric vehicles, it is important that we continue expanding the charging network so that drivers have confidence in making the switch. Government is investing significantly in charging infrastructure and that investment will continue in the years ahead.”
The ICE2EV Scheme will be administered by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland and applications will open on 1 July 2026.
