New low-cost loan scheme makes home energy upgrades more affordable and a key part of Ireland’s energy transformation – William Walsh, CEO of SEAI
Ireland is one of the most fossil-fuel dependant countries in Europe and this must change if we want a cleaner and healthier future. It means all of us across society, in communities, businesses, in how we travel and in our homes, playing our part in Ireland’s transition away from fossil fuels.
Energy and climate action are inextricably linked. Using less energy more efficiently is the most cost-effective and accessible way for us all to take action on climate change and through our homes we can make a significant difference. The Government recently announced a new landmark low-cost energy upgrade loan scheme which will make it more affordable for homeowners to undertake an energy upgrade.
SEAI is extremely pleased to support this first-of-its-kind low interest loan scheme which is being delivered by the Strategic Banking Corporation of Ireland on behalf of the Department of Environment, Climate and Communications. The launch is a significant milestone in Ireland’s decarbonisation journey. SEAI research shows that a lack of finance prevents homeowners from improving their home’s energy efficiency. Under this scheme loans from €5,000 to €75,000, which will be provided upfront, can be used to undertake a deep retrofit involving several energy upgrades at the same time or for a smaller number of upgrades that will significantly improve the energy performance of a home. To avail of the low-cost loans, the upgrade projects musts be supported by an SEAI grant and projected to achieve a minimum 20% improvement in the energy performance (BER) of the home. PTSB is the first financial institution to offer loans at a rate of 3.55% to homeowners with AIB, Bank of Ireland, Avant Money and seven credit unions from the Irish League of Credit Unions expected to start offering loans in the coming weeks.
Energy upgrades increase the comfort of homes, improve health, reduce energy bills and also increases the value of a home. The financial proposition for homeowners has never been more compelling with government grants towards the cost of works, low interest loans to help fund the remainder and the possibility of accessing low interest green mortgages. Paired with SEAI’s advice and grant programmes, the new low-cost scheme streamlines the process so householders can make informed energy-efficient choices. It is a vital step in empowering people to take personal action to address climate change and play a part in Ireland’s sustainable energy future.
Interested homeowners should contact an SEAI registered One Stop Shop to get a Home Energy Summary Report to use when applying for a low-cost loan. Visit www.seai.ie for full details.
William Walsh is CEO of SEAI
The Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) is the Government’s lead agency tasked with driving Ireland’s energy transformation by cutting carbon emissions and removing fossil fuels from Ireland’s energy system.