The maximum amount under the Housing Adaptation Grant is €30,000, which may cover up to 95 per cent of the works.

CEO of Alone, Sean Moynihan, says the vast majority want help for older people forced to rent.

The allocation follows initial grants to the local authorities in April, with the second tranche doubling the previous figure,

The grants are designed to improve infrastructure at the facilities.

David Doherty of Switch2Solar in Ballinlough says this has made solar power more affordable and within people's budgets.

49 grants were paid out last season with 37 grant application so far this year.

Deborah Dwyer of Westmeath Citizens Information says that if a person was previously refused Fuel Allowance, they may now be eligible as the bands have widened.

Mel Crowe believes the key to successful grant applications is to keep trying: