Overview of the National Home Energy Upgrade Scheme in Ireland
Homeowners across Ireland may have the opportunity to access a valuable grant scheme that supports energy efficiency improvements. The National Home Energy Upgrade Scheme offers financial assistance, with grants reaching up to €8,000 for eligible homeowners, private landlords, and approved housing bodies. This initiative aims to enhance the energy performance of properties, ensuring they achieve an energy rating of B2 or higher after completion.
The Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) oversees the administration of this scheme. All work under the program is managed by private companies known as One-Stop Shops, which are registered with SEAI. These entities provide a streamlined process for homeowners seeking to improve their property’s energy efficiency.
Eligibility Criteria for the Grant
To qualify for the grant, certain conditions must be met. First, applicants must be the owner of a property that was built and occupied before 2011. This applies specifically to grants related to insulation, heating control systems, and renewable energy installations.
Additionally, the home must have a Building Energy Rating (BER) of B3 or lower prior to any upgrades. After the improvements are completed, the BER must reach at least B2. There should also be a minimum improvement of 100kWh/m² per year in energy efficiency.
Applicants must not have previously received grants for the same type of energy upgrades. It is also required to use an SEAI-registered One-Stop Shop to manage the application process and the actual work.
Available Energy Upgrade Grants
Under the National Home Energy Upgrade Scheme, several types of energy improvements are eligible for financial support. These include:
- Attic and rafter insulation
- Wall insulation (cavity wall, internal dry lining, and external insulation)
- Floor insulation
- Heating control systems
- Solar thermal solutions (solar hot water)
- Solar PV panels
- Heat pump systems and central heating systems for heat pumps
- New windows and external doors
- Mechanical ventilation and air tightness measures
- Home energy assessment
- Project management services
These upgrades can significantly reduce energy consumption and lower utility bills, making homes more comfortable and environmentally friendly.
How to Apply for the Grant
Homeowners interested in applying for the grant should contact an SEAI-registered One-Stop Shop. These companies act as intermediaries between applicants and the scheme, providing guidance on the application process, managing the work, and handling all necessary paperwork.
A list of registered One-Stop Shops can be found on the SEAI website. Alternatively, applicants can visit the official SEAI site for more information about the scheme and the steps involved in applying.
Additional Options for Individual Upgrades
In addition to the full-scale upgrade scheme, SEAI also offers individual energy upgrade grants. These are ideal for homeowners who wish to make specific improvements rather than undertaking a complete overhaul of their property.
The amount of the grant varies depending on the type of work and the property itself. For homeowners and private landlords, the grant ranges from €350 to €8,000. Approved housing bodies may be eligible for up to €10,000 in funding.
This flexibility allows for tailored improvements that meet the unique needs of each household while contributing to broader environmental goals.
