Oaklee welcomes the European Commission’s Affordable Housing Plan, which sets out a comprehensive approach to tackling Europe’s housing crisis through increased supply, affordability, and sustainability. The plan recognises housing as a fundamental right and calls for collaboration across all levels of government and stakeholders. As one of Ireland’s largest Approved Housing Bodies, Oaklee is ready to play its part in delivering this vision.
Context within EU and National Policy
While the EU Affordable Housing Plan signals a new era of collaboration, housing policy will remain a national competence. The measures announced aim to remove barriers to public investment and support cost rental and affordable housing delivery, while respecting Member States’ autonomy. This approach ensures that Ireland can continue to shape housing policy nationally, while benefiting from EU-level initiatives such as the Pan European Investment Platform and revised state aid rules. As Ireland prepares to assume the Presidency of the Council of the European Union in 2026, Oaklee stands ready to support national leadership and drive progress on affordable, sustainable housing at both the national and European level.
Sharon Cosgrove, CEO of Oaklee, said:
“We welcome the EU’s vision for affordable, sustainable housing. At Oaklee, our commitment goes beyond building homes; it’s about supporting the people who live in them. In 2024, 74% of our residents told us they value energy-efficient homes, and that drives us to deliver homes that offer financial, environmental, health, and social benefits.”
Kevin Deegan, Communications & Policy Manager, added:
“The EU Affordable Housing Plan is a welcome step towards unlocking investment and supporting sustainable housing across Europe. Our Sustainability Strategy 2025–2028 complements this vision by setting out practical actions to reduce energy costs, improve comfort, and create greener communities. These measures ensure residents benefit directly while helping Ireland meet its climate commitments.”
Delivering Sustainability for Residents
Oaklee has delivered 534 homes since January 2024, comprising both social and cost rental homes, bringing affordable housing to communities across Ireland. Through strong partnerships and innovative models, we are meeting local housing needs while ensuring every home achieves high energy standards and incorporates biodiversity for healthier, sustainable living.
Looking ahead to 2026 and beyond, Oaklee is aiming to cut energy bills, improve comfort, and create greener neighbourhoods as part of its Sustainability Strategy 2025-2028. As part of this plan, we aim to retrofit 1,200 properties to higher energy standards, deliver Net Zero homes, and add green spaces and sustainable transport options, making communities healthier and more affordable for residents.
With a fully funded and contracted pipeline for at least 461 homes for 2026, a conservative estimate, Oaklee is confident in continuing to deliver on its commitment to affordable, sustainable housing.
Sector Leadership and Climate Action
Oaklee’s approach reflects wider policy ambitions, including recommendations from the Report of the Approved Housing Body Strategic Forum, published in June 2025 by the Department of Housing, which calls for a Green Deal for AHBs to accelerate retrofitting and energy efficiency across Ireland’s social housing sector. These measures aim to reduce energy costs for vulnerable households, improve comfort and health, and help meet Ireland’s climate targets.
Oaklee is committed to playing its part in this transformation, ensuring that sustainability delivers real benefits for residents.
Sharon Cosgrove concluded:
“We know the scale of the challenge, and we are taking action. Our sustainability roadmap is ambitious yet practical, ensuring that Oaklee continues to play its part in creating great homes and thriving communities.
“As we look to 2026 and beyond, we will continue to work with partners to create secure, nurturing environments where people and communities can thrive.”
For More:
Kevin Deegan
Communications & Policy Manager
E: kevin.deegan@oaklee.ie | M: 086 839 2182
Notes:
EU Affordable Housing Plan – December 2025
Oaklee Sustainability Strategy 2025-2028
Resident Engagement: Launch energy engagement workshops and create a ‘Resident Green Group’ to promote sustainable behaviours and tackle fuel poverty.
Net Zero Energy Homes: All new developments will exceed A2 energy ratings and aim for net zero operational carbon. A new Design Guide includes requirements for clean heating, biodiversity, and infrastructure for sustainable transport (EV charging, bike storage).
Retrofit Programme: Plan to retrofit 1,200 homes to achieve a minimum BER B2 rating, reducing carbon emissions and energy costs for residents.
Climate Resilience & Biodiversity: Incorporate green roofs, Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS), and biodiversity initiatives in new developments. Deliver three biodiversity projects annually across schemes.
Emission Reduction: Target a 3% annual reduction in emissions from the 2020/21 baseline, supported by smart energy procurement and innovative technologies.
Circular Economy & Green Office: Implement recycling programmes, green office initiatives, and sustainable materials sourcing. Promote hybrid working and sustainable travel options for staff.
Governance & Transparency: Move towards formal ESG reporting and publish annual sustainability reports. Quarterly updates will be provided to the Senior Management Team and Housing Services Committee.
