SEAI says It’s Time to Show Fossil Fuels the Door!

The Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) is encouraging homeowners with old oil or gas boilers to show fossil fuels the door and make the switch to a heat pump to enjoy the benefits of a cleaner, more renewable heating system.

By upgrading your home insulation and switching to a heat pump, homeowners will have a more comfortable, healthier home, make savings on energy bills, and reduce their carbon footprint.

Heat pumps use electricity, which is increasingly renewably sourced, making them the most environmentally friendly heating system available today. Last year, 42% of Ireland’s electricity was renewably sourced, with a target of 80% set for renewable generation by 2030. They are a tried and tested technology, suitable for both new and old homes, working most efficiently in well-insulated homes. More than 100,000 homeowners across Ireland have already embraced the future of heating and are experiencing the benefits of a more fossil fuel free home.

Susan Andrews, Marketing Campaigns Manager with SEAI highlighted the many advantages of heat pumps:

“Heat pumps offer unparalleled comfort and can often be integrated into your existing set up with little disruption. They are a great option for homeowners looking to reduce their carbon footprint and move away from fossil fuels. Heat pumps are much more efficient than traditional boilers as they use less energy to keep your home just as warm. They also create a healthier living environment by maintaining a constant, comfortable temperature throughout the year.”

Although installation costs may be higher than a typical boiler, the benefits include cheaper long term energy costs, and an increased Building Energy Rating (BER) for one’s home, increasing the property’s market value. There are also a range of grants and supports available for homeowners making the switch to heat pumps:

“With more products available on the market, and Government grants of up to €10,500 through SEAI, heat pumps are now more affordable than ever. SEAI also provides funding towards an assessment of your home to make sure it is well insulated and suitable for a heat pump, guiding homeowners every step of the way.

SEAI’s individual home energy upgrade grants give homeowners the option of carrying out one or two energy upgrades over time, taking a step-by-step approach. Alternatively, there’s the One Stop Shop service for homeowners looking to carry out a comprehensive energy upgrade in one go to achieve a B or even an A rated home,” Andrews explained.

SEAI registered One Stop Shops offer start to finish project management of your upgrades, including all grant aspects. They reduce the administrative and financial burden on homeowners, with the eligible grant deducted upfront from the cost of works.

Andrews concludes: “No matter where homeowners are on their home energy upgrade journey, every step pushes fossil fuels further out the door, and SEAI are dedicated to supporting everyone’s transition”.

Now is the time to show fossil fuels the door and switch to a heat pump for a more fossil fuel free home!

To learn more about the benefits of installing a heat pump and to start your home energy upgrade today, visit www.seai.ie/home-energy/home-upgrades.