Fully funded energy upgrades for homeowners in Kilkenny

Home owners in Kilkenny can apply for a government energy upgrade programme to bring their homes up to a very comfortable energy rating and reduce their heating and energy bills.

Kilkenny homeowners, whose houses were built before 2006 and who are in receipt of fuel allowance or certain social welfare payments are entitled to a free energy upgrade that would see their BER rating rise to a cosy B2. The application form is a straightforward document and there’s no need for upfront payments in advance.

Speaking about the scheme that she has assisted some local people with lately, Green Party Cllr Maria Dollard described it as a 'real gamechanger'.

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“This scheme is a real gamechanger for many people who may own their own home but are not in a position to pay for energy upgrades as they are in receipt of means tested social welfare payments. The scheme delivers fully funded energy upgrades to
homeowners who receive certain welfare payments. If you qualify for the scheme the government scheme can help to make your home warmer, healthier, and cheaper to run.”

"There are no upfront costs and everything including the appointment of a contractor to carry out the work is arranged by the SEAI. The scheme will target the worst performing properties, by prioritising homes that were built and occupied before 1993 and have a pre-works BER of E, F or G. Existing applications will not be affected by this change.

"For the first time, applications will be accepted from qualifying homeowners who previously received supports under the scheme, but who could still benefit from even deeper measures. The scheme eligibility criteria will also be extended to include those in receipt of the Disability Allowance for over six months and have a child under seven years.

"An SEAI surveyor will recommend upgrades that are suitable for your property. These will be  based on factors such as its age, size, existing heating system and condition. Upgrades offered under the scheme include attic insulation, cavity wall insulation, external wall insulation and internal wall insulation. Secondary works include lagging jackets, draught proofing and energy efficient lighting and new heating systems and windows are occasionally recommended.

“I would strongly recommend that private homeowners in receipt of payments like Domicillary Care Allowance, Disability or Carers Allowance, Working or One- Parent Allowance or Fuel Allowance, to fill in the four page application form that can be
downloaded from the SEAI website and apply. SEAI will check your eligibility and if you are eligible that will do the rest. It’s a great opportunity and even though the SEAI say it can take up to 18/24 months for the work to be completed, the longer you leave before applying the longer the wait," added Cllr Dollard.