Government Grants for Insulation

The Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) conducts financial schemes designed to support energy technologies. It hopes that such governmental initiatives will further Ireland’s aim to become effective in its domestic energy strategies.

In February 2009, the Minister for Energy announced a €100m home insulation grant package. €50m is allocated for private homeowners wishing to upgrade their homes. The dwelling must be built before 2006 to be eligible for this grant. Funding is available in the following areas:

•  Domestic Grants
•  Commercial Grant

Having attic insulation installed is a particularly effective way of cutting heating bills, as around 40% of heat can be lost through an attic without insulation. Insulating your home is a quick and easy project that can save on energy bills and greatly improve its comfort.

What Grants are Available?

Government grants are available for the following insulation services:

Grant name	Types of home	Value
Attic insulation	Apartment (any) Mid-Terrace Semi-detached or end of terrace Detached house	€800 €1,200 €1,300 €1,500
Cavity wall insulation	Apartment (any) Mid-Terrace Semi-detached or end of terrace Detached house	€700 €800 €1,200 €1,700
Internal Insulation (Dry Lining)	Apartment (any) Mid-Terrace Semi-detached or end of terrace Detached house	€1,500 €2,000 €3,500 €4,500
External Wall Insulation (The Wrap)	Apartment (any) Mid-Terrace Semi-detached or end of terrace Detached house	€3,000 €3,500 €6,000 €8,000

Improving a home’s energy efficiency can significantly enhance comfort while reducing energy costs. By insulating walls and attics, homes retain heat more effectively during the winter and stay cooler in the summer. This leads to a more pleasant living environment and decreases the energy needed for heating and cooling.

The Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) offers grants to help homeowners upgrade their properties. These grants cover various energy-saving measures such as insulation, heating control systems, and renewable energy solutions. By taking advantage of these schemes, homeowners can save money and contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Homeowner Application Guide

Before starting, review the detailed Homeowner Application Guide. This guide will help homeowners understand how to apply for and claim grants. It includes important terms and conditions that must be followed.

Building Regulations (Part L)

According to Part L of the Building Regulations, any upgrade on at least 25% of the home’s surface area must either:

• Achieve a minimum B2 BER rating
• Ensure that the heating system and attic insulation meet the standards

For those applying for an SEAI grant for wall insulation, following these regulations is necessary to get the grant.

Planning Considerations

External insulation might need planning permission, especially for protected structures or properties in conservation areas. Check with a registered contractor or local planning authority. Internal or cavity insulation doesn’t need planning permission.

ESB Networks Service Alteration

Depending on your home’s electrical setup, an ESB Networks Service Alteration could be required for External Wall Insulation. Coordinate with your contractor first. If necessary, contact ESB Networks early to arrange the service alteration. Note that there might be fees and potential delays. Visit www.esbnetworks.ie for more details.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can pensioners apply for insulation grants?

Pensioners looking to apply for insulation grants need to follow a few steps. They should check if they qualify based on their income and benefits. Once eligibility is confirmed, they can contact the relevant government body or organisation managing the grants. To receive the grant, it’s important to submit all required documents, such as proof of ownership and income verification.

What are the steps to obtaining free insulation grants from the government?

• Check Eligibility: Verify if your home and financial situation meet the criteria.
• Application: Fill out the required forms and provide the necessary documentation.
• Approval: Wait for approval from the government body or organisation.
• Hire a Contractor: Once approved, hire a registered contractor to carry out the work.
• Completion and Inspection: After the work is done, the project may be inspected to ensure it meets standards.

What criteria must be met to be eligible for SEAI home insulation grants?

To be eligible for SEAI home insulation grants, applicants must:

• Own a home built and occupied before 2011.
• Ensure the home has a Building Energy Rating (BER) of B3 or lower before the work.
• Achieve a BER of at least B2 after the improvements.
• The insulation upgrades will improve the BER by at least 100kWh/m² per year.

Are there any specific grants available for over 70s to improve home insulation?

Yes, specific grants are available for those over 70 to improve home insulation. These grants often cover costs fully or offer substantial discounts. Pensioners should check with local authorities or government schemes to see if they meet the age and income requirements. They may need to provide proof of age and income.

Can you receive a grant for attic insulation, and if so, what does the process involve?

Yes, grants for attic insulation are available. The process typically involves:

• Eligibility Check: Determine if your property meets the criteria (e.g., built and occupied before a certain year).
• Application: Apply with the necessary details about your home and financial status.
• Contractor Selection: Choose a contractor from the registered list provided by the grant authority.
• Installation: The selected contractor will carry out the insulation work.
• Inspection: A final inspection may occur to ensure the work is up to standard.

Note: We are a contractor from the approved list. Always hire an approved contractor to avoid any issues with the grant approval.