The Warmer Homes Scheme

Are you a homeowner looking to enhance the energy efficiency and warmth of your home at no cost?

The Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) is offering free energy upgrades through their fully funded energy upgrades. This scheme contains The Warmer Homes Scheme.

SEAI Fully Funded Energy Upgrades, comprising the Warmer Homes Scheme, is co-funded by the Government of Ireland and the European Union through the ERDF Northern and Western and Southern, Eastern & Midland Regional Programmes 2021-27.

Here's everything you need to know about how you can qualify and transform your home into an energy-efficient haven.

More than just saving money, these upgrades bring a range of benefits:

• Reduced energy bills: Lower your energy consumption and enjoy significant cost savings every month.
• Enhanced comfort: Say goodbye to drafts and chilly rooms, and experience year-round comfort in your upgraded home.
• Improved air quality: Breathe easier with better ventilation and reduced dust thanks to the upgrades.
• Smaller carbon footprint: Do your part for the environment by reducing your home's energy use and carbon emissions.

Introduction to the Warmer Homes Scheme. 

The Warmer Homes Scheme, sponsored by the SEAI and co-funded by the Government of Ireland and the European Union, aims to improve the energy efficiency of homes. Homeowners receiving specific social welfare payments can benefit from free energy upgrades. Synergy Credit Union is committed to informing its community of the schemes available through the SEAI.

Available Energy Upgrades: 

The scheme covers a range of energy upgrades, including:

• Attic insulation
• Cavity wall insulation (external, internal, and cavity)
• Draught-proofing
• Lagging jackets
• Energy-efficient lighting
• Energy advice
• New central heating systems and occasional replacement windows*

*The SEAI assesses the need for replacement windows on a case-by-case basis, prioritizing single-glazed windows when walls are simultaneously being insulated.

Qualifying for the Scheme: 

To be eligible for the Warmer Homes Scheme, homeowners must meet the following criteria:

• Own and live in the home.
• Home built and occupied before 2006.
• Home has a BER (Building Energy Rating) of C, D, E, F, or G
• Receive specific social welfare payments Fuel Allowance , Working Family Payment, Jobseeker’s Allowance, Disability Allowance, Domiciliary Care Allowance, One Parent Family Payment, Carer's Allowance)

If your home doesn't have a BER, the SEAI offers a free assessment to determine eligibility.

How the Scheme Works: 

1. Application: Apply online or complete a downloadable application form, ensuring you meet the qualifying criteria. The SEAI's online portal helps you check eligibility.
2. Survey: An SEAI surveyor assesses your home's suitability for upgrades and recommends necessary improvements.
3. Contractor Works: A contractor appointed by the SEAI completes the recommended upgrades in your home.
4. Assessment: The SEAI evaluates the completed works, including a new BER assessment and potential quality inspection.

Cost and Repayment: 

The energy upgrades under this scheme are entirely free of charge. However, if you sell your home within five years of the upgrades, you must inform the SEAI. They may request partial or full grant repayment at their discretion.

Application Process for Fully Funded Energy Upgrades: 

1. Read the Scheme and Application Guidelines.
2. Complete the Application Form and, if relevant, the Carers Allowance Confirmation Form.
3. Have the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection (DEASP) complete the relevant section of the application form.
4. Submit your application online HERE or Download the hard copy of the form HERE and post to: Fully Funded Energy Upgrades Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland PO BOX 119 Cahirciveen,Co. Kerry

Apply Immediately as Waiting Times are long:

It is important to be aware that it may take more than a 2-year waiting time before your home is completed. Applications are dealt with on a first-come, first-served basis. The following are the current approximate wait times for each stage of the application process.

• Pre-works BER* - Approx 8 - 10 months from application
•  Survey - Approx 14 months from application
• Works Completed - Approx. 24 - 26 months from application
• Post works BER/Inspection - Approx. 2-3 months after works completed.

*All homes participating on the programme must have a BER in place. If you do not have a valid BER in place, SEAI will carry one out for you in advance of works taking place. This may impact waiting times for applicants.

Why Is Synergy Credit Union promoting this Scheme?  

Synergy Credit Union encourages its local communities to explore the opportunities provided by the Warmer Homes Scheme and Fully Funded Energy Upgrades. By participating in these initiatives, homeowners not only enhance the comfort of their homes but also contribute to a sustainable and energy-efficient future. Embrace the chance to make a positive impact on your home and the environment. Apply today and take the first step towards a greener, more energy-efficient living space.

Synergy Credit Union Low cost Green Loan for those who do qualify for this grant but qualify for other SEAI grants.

If you are considering grant aided upgrades from the SEAI and need to meet the cost of some of the works with borrowing, please take a look at Synergy Credit Unions Green Loan. We can help you reach your eco-friendly goals with our Green Loan for Car & Home.

Please take a look at our Green Loan Here. https://synergycu.ie/loans/green-loan-car-home