Calling all property owners
- Owen McConnon -
Community Retrofit Champion
Are you a member of a community group, business owner or private homeowner? If so, you may be entitled to assistance from the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) to upgrade your buildings to a higher spec, reduce carbon emissions and lower energy costs.
Retrofit Ready is here to support you on your journey on all aspects of retrofitting, from initial consultation through to the applications process.
If you are a member of a community group in the Cavan and Monaghan area, you can benefit from an information event that covers all you need to know about retrofitting.
This invitation is open to Tidy Towns, development groups, community association and sporting clubs, to name but a few, who can avail of this service. It is important to note that these events are free, meaning there is no cost to communities or attendees.
Each event includes local CSO statistics on housing in the area, energy efficiency, and properties which may or may not have a Building Energy Rating (BER) certificate.
These CSO slides are incredibly accurate and in some cases are a real eye opener for residents who live in the area.
Community events also include exhibitors, who work in the area of retrofitting. These exhibitors are insulators, solar panel fitters, heat pump contractors and suppliers.
Their purpose at events is to give attendees first-hand information on retrofitting. They also have on display, products of importance for retrofitting.
Representatives from financial institutions also attend events to assist attendees who may require funding to assist with grants to complete projects.
Most institutions have tailored, low-interest rate green loans, specifically for retrofitting.
Energy audits
Business owners, community halls, sports club rooms can start off by obtaining an energy audit. The audits are carried out by professionally trained personel who are registered and approved by the SEAI. There is a grant from the SEAI to the value of €2,000, which will, in most cases, cover the cost of the audit.
To qualify for the audit your annual energy costs must be over €10,000. The result of the audit will pinpoint where there is energy loss and the approach required to improve the energy efficiency of your buildings.
Individuals can also contact Retrofit Ready to avail of assistance for energy upgrades.
This includes, one-to-one consultation, information on works that can be carried out, and the SEAI grants available for these works.
Form filling is also part of the Retrofit Ready remit, although most grant applications can be made online.
There are three strands of funded retrofitting. The Warmer Homes Scheme (free energy upgrade), Individual Grants and One Stop Shop, (deep retrofit).
Retrofit Ready carry out solar PV, BER and warmer homes workshops for the benefit of consumers.
If you are a community activist (seeking an energy event), a business owner or individual, you can contact Retrofit Ready for more information.
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