Better Energy Homes scheme will remain open through 2014

The Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland has welcomed the fact that the €57m allocated by Government to Better Energy means that Better Energy Homes will remain open for grant applications through 2014.  SEAI also believes that the new Home Renovation Incentive will make home energy retrofitting more appealing than ever.

According to SEAI Chief Executive, Dr Brian Motherway: “The continuation of the Better Energy grants for another year is a great endorsement by Government of the many benefits of energy retrofitting.  We’re also really pleased that homeowners can qualify for both incentives meaning home energy upgrades have never been more affordable.  Householders will benefit directly from more comfortable homes and lower energy bills, while thousands of jobs are supported in the construction sector .”

SEAI recently marked the milestone of 250,000 homes upgraded in Ireland through the highly successful Better Energy schemes. Free home energy upgrades have been completed in 100,000 vulnerable homes through Better Energy Warmer Homes Scheme.  A further 150,000 homeowners have availed of Better Energy Homes grants for insulation and heating upgrades.

According to Mr Pat Rabbitte TD, Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources:  “I am pleased that, as announced in the recent budget, we are in a position to commit €57M to the Better Energy Programme during 2014.   In addition the new Home Renovation Incentive announced by Government provides a welcome further boost to the construction sector, resulting in the creation of jobs and the realisation of energy savings for the economy as a whole.  Home energy retrofit has been very successful to date and these incentives provide further impetus to householders to carry out works. Their investment will be rewarded through long term energy cost savings and tax credits for qualifying work.”

Further details on all schemes are available on www.seai.ie/betterenergyhomes or 1850 927000.