The Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) administers the Better Energy Homes Scheme under the Better Energy Programme. Better Energy Homes provides a financial incentive to private homeowners who wish to improve the energy performance of their homes. Fixed grants are provided towards the cost of a range of measures including attic insulation, wall insulation, heating systems upgrades, solar thermal panels and accompanying BER (Building Energy Rating).
For those householders not in a position to afford the upfront costs associated with the Better Energy Homes scheme, the National Energy Efficiency Action Plan includes a commitment to roll out a Better Energy Financing (BEF) scheme for domestic buildings. The BEF model proposes to assist householders finance energy efficiency measures through the provision of affordable finance, undertaken as part of a robust and quality assured process that will protect consumers and ensure high-quality workmanship.
My Department established a project team to identify the components of a BEF Scheme under the direction of a Project Board representing key state and industry stakeholders. The work of the project team has now concluded and the project team's proposals for the progression of a BEF Scheme are currently being considered by my officials.