Positive news on SEAI grants for pyrite-impacted homes

New measures have been announced that will help householders availing of the Enhanced Defective Concrete Block Scheme to also access grants from the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) to improve the energy performance of their homes.

SEAI grants of up to €37,550 will be available to ensure that the rebuilt or renovated homes are well-insulated and heated with a heat pump. The new, bespoke arrangements will apply exclusively to defective concrete block-affected homeowners and will address barriers to accessing the grants, ensuring that the schemes operate in a streamlined way.

Homeowners will also be able to opt for several SEAI schemes. The SEAI has already contacted approximately 200 affected homeowners who previously expressed an interest in the grants and will be implementing the new approach from next month.

The announcement, made by Environment Minister Eamon Ryan, was welcomed by Fianna Fáil Minister of State Dara Calleary, who has been pushing for the inclusion of homeowners impacted by pyrite and Mica. 

“I have been working very hard on this and I’m delighted we have got it over the line,” said Deputy Calleary, adding that clarity is being sought on several issues but it is a positive development. 

“For a lot of homeowners, this was a major problem. It never made sense that they couldn’t quality for SEAI given the amount of houses that are affected by defective concrete blocks in Mayo," said the Ballina-based TD.

Minister Ryan said the move will aid homeowners in the region and he hopes every impacted household will avail of the grants.

“We have listened to homeowners in the region and heard the particular challenges they faced in accessing the SEAI grants. The Government wants to ensure that every household has the opportunity to take advantage of the green transition and benefit from homes that are warmer, healthier and more comfortable with lower energy bills and emissions,” stated Minister Ryan.