Who applies
A registered SEAI project coordinator
It suits a GAA club, community hall, school or local business that wants to share one retrofit project with others nearby. The coordinator does the paperwork, the contractors and the claim.
Quick facts
- Who applies
- A registered SEAI project coordinator
- Open
- All year
- Charities, community
- Up to 50%
- Public schools
- Up to 50%
- Commercial
- 30%
- Maximum
- €5,000,000 per application
Who can take part
Homes, community buildings, public buildings and businesses can all be part of a project. "If you are a business owner, local community service operator, homeowner or retail owner, we advise that you get in touch with a project coordinator."
Homes must have been built before 1 January 2011. Each finished home must reach a BER of at least B2 and improve by at least 100 kWh/m²/yr, unless a heat pump is being fitted.
How much it pays
The rate depends on who owns the building. "Charities and not-for-profit-run facilities may be eligible for 50% funding, subject to prior agreement with SEAI." "Public schools are eligible for up to 50% funding."
Commercial buildings get 30%: SEAI describes 30% of eligible costs as in line with "other commercial operations under CEG." Homes follow SEAI's One Stop Shop rates, with a higher rate for energy-poor homes.
One application can get up to €5,000,000, and one single project up to €2,000,000. SEAI recommends applying for at least €100,000 because of the administration involved.
How a project is chosen
Applications are assessed first come, first served, but must meet the minimum criteria. "Projects must score at least 65 Marks to qualify for funding." Value for money, energy savings, delivery and partnership all count.
"Projects should include an SEC in their application to score well." An SEC is a Sustainable Energy Community, a local group registered with SEAI.
How to get involved
Find a project coordinator in your area
SEAI lists coordinators by province; the grant is managed by them and only they can apply.
Agree your building's part of the project
The coordinator manages the whole process, from submission and application to the contractor works.
Wait for SEAI's Letter of Offer
No work should start until the Letter of Offer is received.
Finish the works within 12 months
Applicants have 12 months to complete the project.
Things to watch
"It should be noted that fossil fuel boilers or systems maintaining the fossil fuel boiler are not eligible for grant funding."
Businesses in a project are expected to help the community side, for example with cash flow, management or technical advice. SEAI says the funding should be balanced in favour of the not-for-profit partners.
Phone, forms and how long it takes
- SEAI community grant team
- 01 808 2162
- SEAI community grant team
- BEC@seai.ie
- Apply online (project coordinators only)
- SEAI online application
- Coordinators: if an inspection fails
- Appeal inspection results in writing within 14 calendar days of the Inspection Results Notification.
From the official pages (seai.ie), re-checked every night. Numbers and times can change, so check the official page before you send anything.
Common questions
What is the SEAI Community Energy Grant?
An SEAI grant for energy upgrades to a group of homes, community buildings and businesses done as one project, managed by a registered project coordinator.
Can I apply for the community energy grant myself?
No. Only a project coordinator can apply. SEAI advises homeowners, businesses and community groups to contact a coordinator.
How much does the community energy grant cover?
Up to 50% for charities, not-for-profit facilities and public schools, 30% for commercial operations, and One Stop Shop rates for homes.
Is the community energy grant open now?
Yes. SEAI says it is open for applications all year.