Grant Support for Energy Efficiency Upgrades in Ireland
- info3787199
- Jul 18
- 3 min read
Upgrading your home to make it warmer, cheaper to run, and more energy efficient can be a big investment — but there’s good news: Irish homeowners can access a wide range of grants to make these improvements more affordable.
If you're planning insulation, heating, ventilation, or renewable energy upgrades, it’s worth exploring the financial support available from the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI). In this guide, we explain the types of grants available, how they work, and how Q50 can help you make the most of them.
Why SEAI Grants Exist
The Irish government, through SEAI, is committed to helping homeowners improve the energy performance of their properties. Grants are designed to:
● Reduce national energy consumption
● Lower greenhouse gas emissions
● Improve comfort and health in homes
● Make energy-saving upgrades more financially viable
Thousands of households across Ireland have already benefited — and yours could be next.
What Types of Grants Are Available?
The SEAI Home Energy Grants cover a range of upgrade measures. Popular options include (cost figures regularly change):
● Attic insulation: up to €1,500
● Wall insulation (cavity, internal dry-lining, or external wrap): up to €8,000
● Heating controls upgrade: €700
● Heat pump systems: up to €6,500
● Solar thermal (hot water): €1,200
● Solar PV electricity: up to €2,100
● BER assessment: €50
● Ventilation upgrades and validation: varies depending on system
Note: these grants apply only if your home was built and occupied before 2011 (for insulation and heating controls) or before 2021 (for solar hot water, solar PV or heat pumps).
one-Stop-Shop vs Individual Grants
There are two ways to access these grants:
Individual Grants — Ideal if you're upgrading one or two elements (like attic insulation and heating controls). You apply directly through SEAI, hire SEAI-approved contractors, and manage the work yourself.
One-Stop-Shop Scheme — Best for full-home retrofits. A registered provider handles the entire process, from design to installation and grant management. These schemes offer deeper upgrades but can be more expensive upfront.
Q50 works primarily with individual grant applicants, helping you manage upgrades step-by-step while keeping control of your project. However, if the One-Stop-Shop approach is your preferred route we can provide some recommendations.
Who Is Eligible?
To qualify for SEAI home energy grants, you must:
● Own and occupy a property built before the relevant cut-off year (2011 or 2021 depending on the grant)
● Use SEAI-registered contractors
● Apply for the grant before any work begins
● Complete a post-works BER assessment
● Comply with SEAI installation standards and inspections
How to Apply
The grant application process is simple, but you must follow the steps carefully:
Review your home with a BER or energy advice session (Q50 can assist)
Choose upgrade measures that suit your goals and budget
Apply online via the SEAI website
Hire SEAI-registered contractors or a One-Stop-Shop for the work
Carry out the work within the required timeline
Get a post-works BER (Q50 can do this too)
Submit claim documents to receive your grant payment
Missing a step — especially applying late — can result in losing your grant eligibility.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
● Starting work before applying
● Choosing non-registered contractors
● Forgetting to complete the post-works BER
● Delays in paperwork submission
● Assuming all upgrades are covered — not every measure qualifies
Q50 can help you navigate these risks and stay compliant from start to finish.
How Q50 Can Help
We’ve helped dozens of Irish homeowners identify suitable grants, prepare for compliance, and complete the required assessments. Our role includes:
● Independent energy advice
● Pre- and post-works BER assessments
● Airtightness testing and thermal imaging
● Ventilation validation
● Guidance on eligible works and timing
We’re not a contractor or a sales agent — our job is to ensure your upgrades are grant-ready and that your investment delivers results.
Don’t Miss Out on Available Support
If you're thinking about energy upgrades, don't leave money on the table. The grant system is there to help — but the key is planning ahead.
Contact Q50 for straightforward advice, expert assessments, and help navigating the grant process.
Call Chris Moore on 086 313 0970 or email chris@q50.ie
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