How it works
As the days become shorter and the nights become that little bit chillier, it can mean only one thing – winter is on its way. For many homeowners, this time of year brings with it the anxiety and worry of how they will manage to keep their homes warm and comfortable during the winter months. While the rising costs of home heating fuel is a major source of consternation when you are trying to heat your home, the efficiency of your boiler that powers the whole central heating system can also be a worry. Over time, your central heating boiler becomes less and less efficient or in some cases, a low quality boiler may have been fitted in the first place. In either of these instances, you will have to seriously consider a boiler replacement. However, such a project may be costly, which is why you should be aware of the Boiler Replacement Grant and how it can work for you.
Better Energy Scheme
The Government has introduced a scheme called the Better Energy Scheme, which his administered by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI). Under the Scheme, you may be entitled to a grant of EUR700 to replace your oil or gas boiler and have your central heating controls upgraded. The grant is available to homeowners whose homes were built before 2006 and you must be replacing your boiler with a high-efficiency boiler, which means that the new boiler must operate at more than 90% efficiency.
The Scheme itself is very straightforward and here are the steps you need to follow in order to have your boiler replaced.
1. Who will do the work?
Once you have decided that your boiler needs to be replaced, you have to decide who will do the boiler replacement works for you. To qualify for the grant, you must choose an SEAI registered contractor.
2. How do I apply?
Applying for the grant is very easy and there are a two ways in which you can do so. You can fill out an application form that can be posted to the SEAI or you can go to www.seai.ie/betterenergyhomes and fill in an online application form. However you decide to apply, you will need your Meter Point Reference Number (MPRN) which is available on your electricity bill, as well as your bank details, your email address and the details of your chosen contractor.
3. I’ve been approved – what now?
Once you have been approved, you can proceed to have the works carried out by your chosen registered contractor. Once the work has been carried out, you must have a Building Energy Rating (BER) assessment completed and published by a registered BER assessor.
4. How do I receive payment?
The final step in the grant process is the submission of all your completed and correct forms to the SEAI who will then arrange to have your grant payment forwarded directly into your bank account.
The Boiler Replacement Grant is a fantastic opportunity for homeowners to improve the energy efficiency of their homes which will in turn make their homes easier and cheaper to heat – a welcome benefit at anytime, but especially so at this time of year.
