What Changed in 2026?
The Government’s National Residential Retrofit Plan, announced by Minister Eamon Ryan on 27 January 2026, introduced the most significant grant increases in years. Changes took effect in two waves:
From 3 February 2026
- Heat pump grant nearly doubled — the maximum heat pump grant rose from €6,500 to €12,500 for houses (€9,500 for apartments). This now includes a €4,000 Renewable Heat Bonus and up to €2,000 for central heating upgrades (radiators and pipework).
- Attic insulation grants increased — the grant for a detached house rose from €1,500 to €2,000.
- Cavity wall insulation grants increased — the grant for a detached house rose from €1,700 to €1,800.
- Retroactive for open applications — all existing grant applications not yet paid automatically receive the higher amounts.
From 2 March 2026
- Standalone window and door grants — you can now claim window grants as an Individual Grant without needing to carry out other insulation work at the same time.
- Second wall insulation grant — homeowners who previously received a cavity or internal wall insulation grant can now apply again if the insulation has deteriorated.
- Higher grants for welfare recipients — those on qualifying payments (aligned with Warmer Homes eligibility) receive a flat €2,500 for attic insulation and €2,300 for cavity wall insulation, regardless of dwelling type.
- First-time buyer enhanced attic insulation — €2,500 flat grant for all dwelling types.
- One Stop Shop energy uplift requirement removed — for retrofit projects that include a heat pump, the minimum 100 kWh/m²/year energy improvement requirement no longer applies.
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Overview of SEAI Grants
Whether you want to replace draughty windows, install a heat pump, add solar panels, or carry out a complete home energy renovation, the SEAI has a grant scheme to help reduce the upfront cost. Most grants are available to any homeowner, regardless of income, and can be combined with the Warmer Homes Scheme or the Home Energy Upgrade Loan for households that need additional financial support.
This guide covers every current SEAI grant scheme, including Individual Energy Upgrades, the One Stop Shop deep retrofit service, the Fully Funded Warmer Homes programme, EV grants, and the Home Energy Upgrade Loan. We explain how much you can get, who qualifies, how to apply, and what to watch out for in each case.
Improving your home’s BER rating through these grants not only reduces your energy bills but can also increase your property’s value and comfort. Combined with switching to a cheaper energy supplier, a home energy upgrade is one of the most impactful financial decisions an Irish homeowner can make.
What SEAI Grant Schemes Are There?
The SEAI offers three main pathways for home energy improvements. The right choice depends on the scope of work you are planning, your budget, and whether you qualify for means-tested support.
| Feature | Individual Grants | One Stop Shop | Warmer Homes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Project Scope | 1 or 2 specific upgrades | Deep retrofit of entire home | Full home energy upgrade at no cost |
| BER Target | No minimum target | Must achieve minimum B2 | Best cost-effective rating (typically C) |
| Project Management | Homeowner manages | SEAI-registered One Stop Shop | Managed entirely by SEAI |
| Means Tested? | No | No | Yes |
| Grant Payment | Paid after work completes | Deducted upfront from cost | 100% covered |
| Best For | Targeted upgrades on a budget | Comprehensive renovation | Low-income households |
Individual Energy Upgrades (Better Energy Homes Scheme)
The SEAI Individual Energy Upgrade Grants allow you to carry out one or more specific energy upgrades at your own pace. You choose the contractor, manage the project yourself, and claim the grant after the work is completed. This is the most flexible option and suits homeowners who want to make targeted improvements without committing to a full retrofit.
Insulation Grant Amounts (Updated February 2026)
| Measure | Apartment | Mid-Terrace | Semi-D / End-Terrace | Detached |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Attic Insulation | €800 | €1,200 | €1,300 | €2,000 |
| Attic Insulation (First-Time Buyer / Welfare) | €2,500 (all dwelling types) | |||
| Cavity Wall Insulation | €700 | €800 | €1,200 | €1,800 |
| Cavity Wall (Welfare Recipients) | €2,300 (all dwelling types, from 2 March 2026) | |||
| External Wall Insulation | €3,000 | €3,000 | €6,000 | €8,000 |
| Internal Wall Insulation (Dry Lining) | €1,500 | €2,000 | €3,500 | €4,500 |
| Floor Insulation | Up to €3,500 (houses) | |||
| Windows (Standalone from March 2026) | €1,500 | €1,800 | €3,000 | €4,000 |
| External Doors (Max 2) | €800 per door (€1,600 maximum) | |||
| Heating Controls | €700 | |||
Heat Pump Grants (Updated February 2026)
Heat pump grants were nearly doubled on 3 February 2026. The maximum grant is now composed of three components: the heat pump unit (up to €6,500), central heating upgrades such as radiators and pipework (up to €2,000), and a new Renewable Heat Bonus (up to €4,000).
| Heat Pump Type | Houses (Max) | Apartments (Max) |
|---|---|---|
| Air-to-Water Heat Pump | €12,500 | €9,500 |
| Ground Source Heat Pump | €12,500 | €9,500 |
| Exhaust Air-to-Water / Water-to-Water | €12,500 | €9,500 |
| Air-to-Air Heat Pump | €7,500 | €7,500 |
| Technical Assessment | €200 (claimable as part of grant) | |
Renewable Energy Grants
| Measure | Grant Amount |
|---|---|
| Solar PV (up to 4kWp) | Up to €1,800 (€700/kWp for first 2kWp, then €200/kWp up to 4kWp) |
| Solar Battery | €600 |
| Solar Water Heating | €1,200 |
Eligibility for Individual Grants
- Private, owner-occupied house or landlord’s rental property.
- Constructed and occupied before 2011 (for insulation and heating controls).
- Constructed and occupied before 2021 (for heat pumps and renewable systems).
- Must use an SEAI Registered Contractor from the SEAI’s online list.
- Property must not have previously received a grant for the same measure (except repeat wall insulation, newly allowed from March 2026).
- Heat pump applicants for pre-2007 homes must have a Heat Loss Indicator of 2.3 W/(K.m²) or below, or complete a heat loss assessment.
Complete Home Energy Upgrade (One Stop Shop Service)
The One Stop Shop Service is designed for a complete, stress-free deep retrofit. A single SEAI-registered provider manages the entire process — from the initial BER assessment (funded at €350) through to project completion and grant administration. Your home must achieve at least a B2 BER rating after the work is finished.
To be eligible, your home must have been built and occupied before 2011, and have a current BER of B3 or lower. From 2 March 2026, the minimum 100 kWh/m²/year energy uplift requirement has been removed for retrofit projects that include a heat pump.
One Stop Shop Grant Amounts (2026)
| Measure | Apartment | Mid-Terrace | Semi-D / End-Terrace | Detached |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Attic Insulation | €1,100 | €1,400 | €1,500 | €2,000 |
| Cavity Wall Insulation | €700 | €850 | €1,300 | €1,800 |
| External Wall Insulation | €3,000 | €3,500 | €6,000 | €8,000 |
| Windows | €1,500 | €1,800 | €3,000 | €4,000 |
| Heat Pump Systems | €4,500 | €6,500 | €6,500 | €6,500 |
| Solar PV | €1,800 | |||
| Solar Water Heating | €1,200 | |||
| Heating Controls | €700 | |||
| Mechanical Ventilation | €1,500 | |||
| Air Tightness | €1,000 | |||
| Project Management | €800 | €1,200 | €1,600 | €2,000 |
| B2 Bonus (with heat pump) | €2,000 extra if you install a heat pump and achieve a B2 BER rating | |||
Advantages
- Single point of contact manages everything from survey to completion
- Grant is deducted upfront from the cost, so you only pay the balance
- Higher grant amounts than Individual Upgrades for some measures
- Guaranteed minimum B2 BER rating after completion
- €2,000 bonus available when combining heat pump with B2 target
Disadvantages
- You must commit to a whole-house retrofit, not just one or two measures
- Less flexibility in choosing individual contractors
- Waiting times can be significant depending on demand in your area
- Out-of-pocket costs can still be substantial even with grants
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What Is the Fully Funded Energy Upgrade (Warmer Homes Scheme)?
The Warmer Homes Scheme provides completely free home energy upgrades for homeowners receiving certain welfare payments. The SEAI manages the entire process, and there is no cost to the homeowner. Typical works include attic and wall insulation, draught-proofing, lagging jackets, efficient lighting, and in some cases renewable heating systems.
The scheme does not cover oil or gas boiler replacements, and insulation is not available for pre-1940 stone or rubble wall homes. Apartment owners require management company consent before applying. Single-glazed windows may be replaced, but only alongside wall insulation works.
Eligibility for Warmer Homes
All three of the following conditions must be met:
- The home must be your main residence and you must be the homeowner.
- Home was constructed and occupied before 2006.
- Home has a current BER of C, D, E, F, or G.
You must also be receiving one of these qualifying welfare payments: Fuel Allowance, Working Family Payment, One-Parent Family Payment, Domiciliary Care Allowance, Carer’s Allowance (living with the person you care for), Disability Allowance (6+ months with a child under 7), or Jobseeker’s Allowance (6+ months with a child under 7).
Advantages
- 100% free — no cost to the homeowner whatsoever
- SEAI manages the entire project from start to finish
- Includes a wide range of measures: insulation, heating, draught-proofing, lighting
- Post-works BER assessment included at no charge
Disadvantages
- Means-tested: only available to recipients of specific welfare payments
- Very long waiting times (up to 2 years for full completion)
- Limited to homes built before 2006 with a BER of C or worse
- You cannot choose your own contractor
- Oil and gas boilers are not replaced under this scheme
SEAI Grants for Pensioners and Over 70s
Pensioners and those aged over 70 are eligible for all standard SEAI grants (Individual and One Stop Shop) on the same basis as any other homeowner. There is no age-based restriction or additional requirement. If you receive the Fuel Allowance, you may also qualify for the Warmer Homes Scheme, which is completely free.
From March 2026, those on qualifying welfare payments (including Fuel Allowance) also receive enhanced individual grants: a flat €2,500 for attic insulation and €2,300 for cavity wall insulation, regardless of dwelling type.
In addition to SEAI grants, pensioners should check their eligibility for:
- Free Electricity Allowance — €35/month towards your electricity bill
- Household Benefits Package — includes the Free Electricity Allowance plus a free TV licence
- Housing Aid for Older People Grant — available through your local authority (not SEAI) for people aged 66 and over. Provides up to €10,700 for essential home repairs including heating, windows, doors, structural repairs, and rewiring. This is means-tested based on household income.
Home Energy Upgrade Loan Scheme
Even with SEAI grants, a deep retrofit can leave a significant balance to pay. The Home Energy Upgrade Loan Scheme, available from participating banks and credit unions, offers low-interest finance specifically for energy improvements.
- Loan Amounts: Between €5,000 and €75,000
- Loan Term: Up to 10 years
- Low Interest Rates: Significantly more affordable than standard personal loans
- Unsecured: No security or personal guarantee required
- Use of Funds: At least 75% must go towards eligible energy upgrades; up to 25% can be used for related non-energy works (e.g. rewiring, replastering after insulation)
SEAI Electric Vehicle Grants
The SEAI provides grants towards the purchase of new battery electric vehicles (BEVs). The grant amount is based on the vehicle’s list price. Plug-in hybrid vehicles are no longer eligible.
Private Electric Vehicle Grants
| Vehicle List Price | Grant Amount |
|---|---|
| €14,000 – €15,000 | €1,500 |
| €15,000 – €16,000 | €2,000 |
| €16,000 – €17,000 | €2,500 |
| €17,000 – €18,000 | €3,000 |
| €18,000 – €60,000 | €3,500 |
EV Home Charger Grant
You can also claim up to €300 towards the installation of a home EV charging point. The charger must be installed by a Safe Electric registered contractor. This grant is available regardless of when you purchased your electric vehicle.
If you charge at home overnight, compare the best EV electricity tariffs to reduce your running costs further. A smart meter allows you to access time-of-use rates that make overnight charging significantly cheaper.
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How Do I Apply for an SEAI Grant?
The application process varies slightly depending on which scheme you use. For Individual Energy Upgrade Grants, the general process is as follows:
- Choose your energy upgrades — Consider getting a BER assessment first to identify the most impactful measures for your home.
- Contact an SEAI registered technical advisor — This is mandatory for heat pump grants and recommended for all projects.
- Choose a registered SEAI contractor — Get a written quotation and contract before any work begins.
- Apply for the grant online — Submit your application via the SEAI website. You must accept the grant offer within 30 days.
- Have the work carried out — Complete all works within the eight-month period specified in your grant offer.
- Submit documentation and receive payment — Upload your contractor’s declaration of works and invoices. SEAI processes payment directly to your bank account.
Other SEAI Grant Schemes
Beyond the main home energy grant programmes, the SEAI administers several additional schemes:
- Community Energy Grants — For groups of homeowners, community organisations, or housing associations upgrading multiple buildings together.
- Solar PV Grants — Available as a standalone Individual Grant for systems up to 4kWp.
- Microgeneration Support Scheme — Sell excess electricity back to the grid from your solar panels or other renewable source.
- Business Energy Grants — Separate schemes for commercial and business premises.
SEAI Contact Details
If you have questions about any SEAI grant scheme, you can contact the relevant department directly:
| Department | Phone |
|---|---|
| SEAI Head Office | 01 808 2100 |
| Home Energy Grants | 01 808 2004 |
| Fully Funded Energy Upgrades | 01 808 2005 |
| Electric Vehicle Grants | 01 808 2100 |
Making the Most of SEAI Grants in 2026
SEAI grants can cover a substantial portion of your home energy upgrade costs, but the key is to plan carefully. Start by getting a BER assessment to understand which measures will deliver the greatest improvement to your home’s energy performance. Then choose the right scheme for your circumstances — Individual Grants for targeted upgrades, One Stop Shop for a full retrofit, or Warmer Homes if you qualify.
Once your home is upgraded, make sure you are also on the cheapest electricity plan available. A well-insulated home with a heat pump and solar panels, paired with an affordable smart meter plan, can dramatically reduce your annual energy costs. Switching supplier is free and takes just a few minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions About SEAI grants
The maximum heat pump grant is now €12,500 for houses and €9,500 for apartments (increased from €6,500 on 3 February 2026). This is composed of up to €6,500 for the heat pump unit, up to €2,000 for central heating upgrades (radiators and pipework), and a €4,000 Renewable Heat Bonus. Air-to-air heat pumps receive up to €7,500. If you already had an open application before 3 February 2026, your grant is automatically upgraded to the new amount.
No. The SEAI does not offer grants for gas or oil boilers. Ireland’s grant policy focuses on reducing carbon emissions, so only non-fossil-fuel heating systems qualify. You can get grants for heat pumps (air-to-water, air-to-air, and ground source), which are the recommended replacement for gas and oil boilers.
Most SEAI grants are not means tested. The Individual Energy Upgrade Grants and the One Stop Shop Service are available to any eligible homeowner, regardless of income. The only means-tested scheme is the Fully Funded Energy Upgrade (Warmer Homes Scheme), which requires you to be receiving specific welfare payments such as the Fuel Allowance or Disability Allowance.
A Building Energy Rating (BER) certificate is an energy efficiency label for homes in Ireland, ranging from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient). It assesses factors like insulation, heating, and windows to provide a standardised measure of your home’s energy performance. A BER assessment is required before and after most SEAI-funded upgrades. Learn more in our BER rating guide.
Yes. Landlords can apply for Individual Energy Upgrade Grants for their rental properties. The property must have been built before the relevant cut-off date (2011 for insulation, 2021 for heat pumps). The landlord applies and receives the grant, but the tenant benefits from a warmer, more energy-efficient home with lower energy bills.
Yes, from 2 March 2026. Standalone window and door grants are now available as Individual Energy Upgrade Grants. Previously, window grants were only available through the One Stop Shop scheme as part of a deep retrofit. You can now claim up to €4,000 for window replacement in a detached house, or €800 per external door (maximum 2 doors), without needing to carry out other insulation work at the same time.
Yes, you can claim grants for multiple measures on the same property. For example, you could claim for attic insulation, cavity wall insulation, and a heat pump in the same application. However, you cannot claim the same measure twice (except for repeat wall insulation, which is newly allowed in 2026). You can also combine grants with the Home Energy Upgrade Loan to cover the remaining cost.