The scheme, which was announced last March, aims to increase the number of homes that use renewable energy.

The high level of interest reflects a growing sense of environmental awareness according to Fianna Fail councillor Mary Fitzpatrick, who has solar panels in her Dublin house.

"We have to be more environmentally aware as this energy crisis looms. Sustainable energy in homes makes economical sense.

That's why we put in solar panels in our house, " Fitzpatrick said.

It is a route that has been followed by Danny McGeachan who is building his first home in Co Wicklow with his fiancee.

"We decided to go with a green home because of the price of oil. We are hoping to live in this house for the rest of our lives so we have to look ahead to that, " he said. The initial cost of building a green home is greater than a traditional home.

"It will definitely cost more when we are building, probably about 10%, but it will be well worth it in the long run.

Heating your house costs about 1,000 a year and that is something we won't have to worry about, " he said.

Fitzpatrick believes the construction trade should lead the way in sustainable energy.

"When we put in our panels it was quite hard to get information and people to fit them, " she said.