- Wednesday 12 July 2023
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More and more Irish homeowners are choosing to enhance their homes for improved energy efficiency. They enjoy the advantages of a healthier, cozier living space while substantially lowering energy costs and minimizing their carbon footprint.
Irish homeowners are increasingly upgrading their homes to be more energy-efficient, given rising energy costs and available government grants. However, achieving the government's targets of retrofitting 500,000 homes to a B2 rating and installing 400,000 heat pumps by 2023 is a significant challenge, as half of Irish homes currently have a low Building Energy Rating (BER).
Nearly 30% of Irish homes, equivalent to half a million residential buildings, require retrofitting to meet government targets. Currently, only 10% of homes have a B2 or higher Building Energy Rating (BER). Retrofitting is crucial to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and achieve a 51% overall reduction by 2030. Homeowners should focus on insulation, airtightness, efficient heating/cooling systems, programmable thermostats, and replacing energy-inefficient appliances.
Upgrading windows, doors, lighting, and appliances not only saves energy but also increases your home's value. Installing solar panels improves the BER rating, reduces energy costs, and prepares your home for future energy price increases. In the coming years, we can expect new legislation requiring greater emission reductions in residential buildings. This could include restrictions on renting or selling properties with low BER ratings, similar to regulations in the UK.
Come into your local Bandon Co-Op store for valuable insights on sustainable living, paint tips, energy efficiency, and more. Talk to one of our experts to achieve your sustainable home goals with our assistance.
