Almost 1,500 home energy upgrades in Galway in first half of 2023

The Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) has reported strong performance in the first half of 2023 with 1,457 home energy upgrades being completed in Galway. 

A report published today gives details of the 21,727 home energy upgrades supported through SEAI grant schemes in the first half this year, representing a 150% increase on the same period last year.

The figures suggest activity is on track to meet or surpass the 37,000 upgrades target for 2023. 

The SEAI processed more than 31,500 grant applications across all schemes, up 41% on the same period last year. 

Solar PV property upgrades are up a massive 231% over last year, rising significantly following the Government’s move to cut VAT. 

A total of 7,566 homes were upgraded to a BER B2 or higher, up 210% on last year, and 2,346 property upgrades were completed through programmes focused on homes at risk of fuel poverty. This was up 20% on the same period last year

The first half of 2023 also say 7,122 attic and 5,641 cavity wall upgrades were supported. This is one of the most effective ways to make a home warmer and more efficient. 

Expenditure across all schemes was €129.9m, up 121% on the same period last year.

Commenting on the report, Dr Ciaran Byrne, Director of National Retrofit at SEAI said that they are very pleased that overall demand has remained very strong across all schemes.

“Clearly, the increased grant values and new grant options introduced last year have made home energy upgrades much more appealing to homeowners,” he said.

“The removal of VAT on solar panels has driven significant demand on this programme and it is likely to continue into the third and fourth quarters of 2023.  

“On the supply side, the additional registration of five one-stop shops this quarter points to continued strong interest in the longer-term economic opportunities offered. We anticipate the increased supply to further drive demand and cost competitiveness.”