As Ireland works towards a greener future, homeowners across the country are looking for ways to make their homes more energy efficient. Whether upgrading insulation, or replacing an outdated heating system, energy upgrades are a smart investment, but upfront costs can often hold homeowners back.

To address this challenge, the Strategic Banking Corporation of Ireland (SBCI), with the support of the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications and the European Investment Bank Group, launched the Home Energy Upgrade Loan Scheme. This government-backed scheme offers affordable finance options to homeowners seeking to improve their home’s energy efficiency.

What is the Home Energy Upgrade Loan Scheme

The Home Energy Upgrade Loan Scheme is designed to make energy efficiency improvements more accessible and affordable for homeowners. Through this scheme, eligible homeowners can access low-cost loans from participating finance providers to finance a wide range of energy upgrades.

What Upgrades Are Covered

The scheme supports a wide range of energy-saving home improvements, including:

• Insulation upgrades (walls, attic, floors)
• Window and door replacements (to improve airtightness and thermal performance)
• Heating system upgrades (such as heat pumps)
• Renewable energy technologies
• Ventilation improvements to maintain indoor air quality in energy-efficient homes

By supporting these measures, the scheme helps homeowners increase comfort, cut energy costs, and boost their Building Energy Rating (BER).

Key Benefits for Homeowners

The Home Energy Upgrade Loan Scheme offers several financial advantages:

• Lower Interest Rates. The loans are offered at competitive rates, lower than standard personal loans, thanks to the government and EU backing.
• Loan Amounts Suited to Every Project. Loans range from €5,000 to €75,000, allowing homeowners to finance anything from minor upgrades to full-scale retrofits.
• Flexible Terms. Loans can be repaid over a period of up to 10 years, giving homeowners the option to spread costs over time.
• No Personal Guarantees Required. Loans under this scheme are unsecured and do not require personal guarantees.
• Get the Loan Upfront. Loans can be draw down before the upgrade works have been carried out.
• Works with SEAI Grants. Homeowners can combine the loan with a Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) home energy upgrade grant, helping to further reduce the overall cost of the project.

Who Can Apply

• Homeowners of private properties located in the Republic of Ireland (including houses and apartments).

All upgrade works must be carried out by a SEAI-registered One Stop Shop or Community Project Coordinator, ensuring that the work meets high-quality standards and qualifies for grant support.

How to Apply

• Contact an SEAI-registered One-Stop-Shop or a Community Project Coordinator for a property assessment and plan the home energy upgrade.
• Engage with one of the participating finance providers and apply for a loan.

The Home Energy Upgrade Loan Scheme is available through AIB, Bank of Ireland, PTSB, and Avant Money in partnership with An Post. Additionally, several Credit Unions are expected to start offering loans under this government-backed scheme in April.

Why Now is the Right Time to Upgrade

With energy costs still a concern for households, improving a home’s energy efficiency can deliver immediate savings on bills, while also increasing comfort and property value.

The Home Energy Upgrade Loan Scheme removes one of the biggest barriers — upfront cost — making it easier to invest in energy efficiency with the confidence that affordable finance is available.

Find Out More

For full details on the Home Energy Upgrade Loan Scheme, including participating finance providers and eligibility requirements, visit the SBCI website at here.