Ireland Expands Ireland solar grants Under National Retrofit Plan 2026
The Irish government is doubling down on its commitment to a sustainable future, unveiling a significant expansion of grants under the National Residential Retrofit Plan for 2026. Announced by Minister Darragh O’Brien, this comprehensive package, administered by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI), places a major emphasis on making solar energy and other efficiency upgrades more accessible and affordable for homeowners across the country.
Building on the momentum of 2025, which saw over 58,000 homes benefit from retrofitting grants, the updated plan aims to help even more households reduce their energy bills, improve home comfort, and play a crucial role in meeting Ireland’s climate action targets.
Shining a Light on Solar and Renewable Energy with Ireland solar grants
A standout feature of the 2026 plan is the enhanced support for solar photovoltaic (PV) systems. Homeowners looking to harness the power of the sun will find the path to installation clearer and more financially viable than ever before.
The government is actively promoting the adoption of solar PV alongside other key renewable technologies like heat pumps. This push is complemented by a crucial financial incentive: a 0% VAT rate on the supply and installation of domestic solar panels. This measure alone significantly reduces the upfront cost, making the long-term benefits of solar energy—lower electricity bills and a smaller carbon footprint—an immediate and attractive prospect for thousands of families.
A Whole-Home Approach to Energy Efficiency and Ireland solar grants
While solar is a key focus, the National Retrofit Plan offers a holistic package designed to upgrade the entire home for maximum efficiency. The expanded grants cover a wide range of improvements:
Enhanced Heat Pump Grants with Ireland solar grants
Recognising the central role of efficient heating, the plan includes substantial fixed grants for heat pumps. Most homes can now receive up to €12,500, which includes a renewable heat bonus and a central heating grant. Apartments are eligible for up to €9,500, while air-to-air models are supported with grants of up to €7,500. Furthermore, a new pilot programme for high-temperature heat pumps will be launched under the National Home Energy Upgrade Scheme, opening up options for a wider range of properties.
New Grants for Windows and Doors with Ireland solar grants
Proper insulation is critical, and for the first time, homeowners will be able to access dedicated support for upgrading windows and external doors. Starting from March 2026, a new grant will offer up to €4,000 for installing energy-efficient windows in a detached home and up to €800 per external door (for a maximum of two doors).
Making Retrofitting Accessible for All with Ireland solar grants
A core principle of the 2026 plan is to ensure that these energy upgrades are within reach for as many people as possible. Several measures have been put in place to break down financial and logistical barriers:
- Support for Vulnerable Households: Approved Housing Bodies (AHBs) can now receive funding covering up to 80% of costs, with the potential for this to exceed 90% when combined with other schemes. This ensures that tenants in social housing can benefit from warmer, healthier homes.
- Financial Flexibility: The popular “One Stop Shop” service continues to offer homeowners a fully managed, end-to-end retrofit service. For those needing financial assistance, the Home Energy Upgrade Loan Scheme provides access to loans from €5,000 to €75,000 at competitive interest rates.
- Tax Relief: In addition to the 0% VAT on solar panels, homeowners can benefit from a reduced 9% VAT rate on heat pumps and tax relief for retrofits carried out on rental properties.
For homeowners who have already applied for a grant but have not yet requested payment, the new, increased grant amounts will automatically apply to their application.
This ambitious expansion of the National Residential Retrofit Plan marks a pivotal step in Ireland’s energy transition. By placing a strong focus on solar power and providing robust, multi-faceted support for a range of efficiency measures, the government is empowering homeowners to invest in a warmer, cheaper, and greener future.
To learn more about your eligibility and begin your home energy upgrade journey, homeowners are encouraged to visit the official SEAI website.
