Homeowners losing out if they don’t take action on Energy Efficiency – SEAI

“Homeowners who are taking action now to reduce energy consumption and reliance on fossil fuels in their homes will lower their energy bills substantially.” This is the message from the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI), who is urging homeowners to avail of Government of Ireland funded home energy grants and supports.

Encouraging homeowners to avail of the potential savings, Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment, Richard Bruton, T.D. said:

“There are a wide range of grants and supports available to householders keen to make their homes more energy efficient. Not only will the upgrades save you money on your energy bills, but they will help you play your part in making Ireland a leader in climate change, by reducing your emissions. Irish homes use 60% more energy than our European neighbours and only a tiny element of this is accounted for by our weather. I’d encourage everyone interested to have a look at the different grants available and take advantage of the funding that’s there.”

80% of the energy used in Ireland’s homes is for heating and hot water. Improving insulation and adopting renewable energy alternatives will reduce energy bills. Commenting on the range of grants and supports available to homeowners, Jim Gannon, CEO of SEAI, said:

“These supports will help make homes warmer, cheaper to run and help reduce carbon emissions. Improving your insulation should be your first priority – it ensures you keep in all your valuable heat. Once your home is well insulated then it’s time to think about improving your heating system.

Last year, grants for heat pumps were introduced, providing homeowners with an alternative to traditional fossil fuel home heating. This complements the grant for solar thermal panels which can halve your hot water heating bills. There is also currently a grant for solar PV, available through our pilot programme, for those who want to generate their own renewable electricity.”

SEAI has individual grants for insulation, renewable home heating, heating controls, and solar PV. These grants range in amount from €400 to €6,000 and typically cover around a third of the cost of the works in an average home.

SEAI also offers free home energy upgrades for homeowners in receipt of certain welfare payments.

For homeowners who are planning a major renovation of their home, there is a 50% grant available that will help bring the home up to an A-rating. This will typically involve more extensive renovations, including; insulation, windows, mechanical ventilation and a renewable heating system, and will require a more substantial investment from the homeowner.

Gannon concluded:

“Energy upgrades will make your home more comfortable and healthier for you and your family. Alongside using more energy efficient lighting and electrical appliances, these upgrades will also reduce how much you spend on energy in your home. Whether you do it on a phased basis or all in one go, it is a great investment in the comfort of your home, and in reducing your cost of living.”

For more information on home energy grants visit www.seai.ie.