Off-Grid Living in Ireland: SEAI Grants & 2026 Costs
Going off-grid in Ireland is more straightforward than most people think. Since the 2022 rule changes, most residential solar installations require no planning permission — they fall under "exempt development." The SEAI Solar PV Grant provides up to €1,800 for solar panels plus an additional €1,000 for battery storage, and residential solar enjoys 0% VAT since May 2023. This guide covers the complete picture: what's actually legal, what it really costs in euros, when off-grid makes sense versus grid-tied solar, and how Ireland compares to the UK.
Is Off-Grid Living Legal in Ireland?
Yes — completely legal. Ireland has no legal requirement for residential properties to remain connected to the ESB (Electricity Supply Board) grid. You can disconnect and power your home entirely from renewable sources without any special permissions.
The more relevant question is whether you can install the solar panels, wind turbine, or other renewable generation equipment without planning permission. The answer for most Irish homeowners is also yes — thanks to significant rule changes in 2022.
What "Legal" Covers in Ireland
- Disconnecting from ESB grid — completely legal, no permission needed
- Rooftop solar on houses — exempt development, no planning permission
- Ground-mounted solar up to 25m² — exempt development
- Battery storage installations — no specific regulations
- Properties in conservation areas or Architectural Conservation Areas (ACAs) — check with local authority
The 2022 Planning Rule Changes
Before 2022, installing solar in Ireland required planning permission in most cases. The 2022 amendments to the Planning and Development Act introduced "exempt development" provisions that dramatically simplified the process for residential renewable energy.
Under the new rules, most household solar installations are now "exempt development" — meaning you can proceed without a planning application, provided you meet certain conditions and notify your local authority.
- No height restrictions on roof-mounted panels
- Must not protrude more than 150mm from roof surface
- Must not be installed on a building in a conservation area
- Must be installed by a registered contractor
- Maximum area: 25m²
- Maximum height: 2m
- Must be within the curtilage of the house
- Must not be visible from a public road
Important: While these installations are "exempt" from full planning permission, you must notify your local authority before starting works. Your registered solar installer typically handles this as part of the installation process. Always confirm with your installer that your specific property doesn't fall within an Architectural Conservation Area (ACA) where additional restrictions may apply.
Off-Grid vs. Grid-Tied Solar: Which Is Right for Your Irish Home?
This is the most important question in this guide. For most Irish homeowners, full off-grid disconnection is the wrong answer. Grid-tied solar plus battery storage gives you 80–90% energy independence while preserving grid access as backup.
| Factor | Full Off-Grid | Grid-Tied + Battery |
|---|---|---|
| System cost (3-bed home) | €18,000–€35,000 | €7,000–€14,000 |
| SEAI grants available | Yes (up to €2,800) | Yes (up to €2,800) |
| Payback period | 12–20 years | 5–9 years |
| Winter resilience | Generator required | ESB grid as backup |
| Energy independence | 100% | 80–90% in summer |
| ESB standing charges | €0/year saved | Still payable (~€400/yr) |
| Mortgage impact | May need notification | None |
Full off-grid makes sense in specific Irish situations
- Your property has no ESB connection and a new connection quote is prohibitive (€10,000–€30,000+)
- You own your property outright with no mortgage
- You're in a very rural location where grid reliability is poor
- You've done the full financial analysis and energy independence has high personal value for you
SEAI Solar Grant Ireland 2026
The Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) offers grants for residential solar PV systems. The grant structure was updated for 2026, with increased rates for battery storage to encourage better energy independence without full grid disconnection.
€900 per kW
- Maximum system size: 2kW
- Maximum grant: €1,800
- Covers panels, inverter, mounting
€1,000 additional
- Must be combined with solar PV grant
- Minimum battery capacity: 2kWh
- Must be installed by SEAI registered contractor
Maximum Combined SEAI Grant: €2,800
A typical 2kW solar system gets €1,800. Adding a battery (2kWh+) adds €1,000, for a total grant of €2,800. This significantly reduces your net investment.
0% VAT on Residential Solar (Since May 2023)
Ireland reduced VAT on residential solar from 13.5% to 0% in May 2023. This applies to both the equipment and installation labour — a significant additional saving beyond the SEAI grant.
How to Apply for SEAI Solar Grant
The SEAI grant application process is straightforward but requires using a registered installer. Here's the step-by-step process for 2026:
Check Your Eligibility
You must be the homeowner and the property must have an Eircode. The property must be built before 2021. You cannot have received an SEAI grant for this property before.
Get Quotes from Registered Installers
Use SEAI's registered contractor list. Get at least 2–3 quotes. Ensure quotes are detailed and specify system size, panel brand, inverter type, and battery capacity if applicable.
Apply Through Your Installer
Your registered installer submits the grant application on your behalf through the SEAI portal. They upload their quote and your property details.
Installation Proceeds
Once SEAI processes the application (typically 2–4 weeks), your installer proceeds with the installation. The system must meet all technical requirements.
Grant Payment
After installation and commissioning, SEAI pays the grant directly to your bank account. This typically takes 4–6 weeks from installation completion.
Timeline: From application to grant payment, expect 8–12 weeks total. Plan ahead if you want solar installed before winter — apply early in the year. SEAI grant applications spike January–March (budget season), so apply late summer for faster processing.
Off-Grid Solar System Costs in Ireland (EUR)
All costs below are in euros and reflect 2026 Irish market prices. These are fully installed costs including panels, inverter, mounting, wiring, and labour. After SEAI grants and 0% VAT, your net cost is significantly lower.
| System Size | Panels Needed | Gross Cost | SEAI Grant | Net Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 kW | 3 × 400W | €2,500–€3,500 | €900 | €1,600–€2,600 |
| 2 kW | 5 × 400W | €4,000–€5,500 | €1,800 | €2,200–€3,700 |
| 3 kW | 8 × 400W | €5,500–€7,500 | €1,800 (max) | €3,700–€5,700 |
| 4 kW | 10 × 400W | €7,000–€9,500 | €1,800 (max) | €5,200–€7,700 |
| 5 kW | 13 × 400W | €8,500–€12,000 | €1,800 (max) | €6,700–€10,200 |
Battery Storage Costs (Additional)
| 5 kWh battery | €3,000–€5,000 | + €1,000 SEAI top-up |
| 10 kWh battery | €5,000–€8,000 | + €1,000 SEAI top-up |
| 15 kWh battery | €7,000–€12,000 | + €1,000 SEAI top-up |
Complete Off-Grid System Costs (Grid-Tied + Battery)
For most Irish homeowners, the right choice is grid-tied solar with battery backup. This gives you significant energy independence while keeping the ESB grid as insurance for winter. Here are typical complete system costs:
| Configuration | Components | Gross Cost | After SEAI Grant |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic Grid-Tied | 2kW solar, inverter | €4,000–€5,500 | €2,200–€3,700 |
| Standard with Battery | 3kW solar, 5kWh battery | €8,000–€11,000 | €4,200–€7,200 |
| Premium with Large Battery | 4kW solar, 10kWh battery | €12,000–€16,000 | €8,200–€12,200 |
| Full Off-Grid | 5kW solar, 15kWh battery, backup generator | €20,000–€35,000 | €17,200–€32,200 |
Irish Solar Irradiance: What to Expect
Ireland has lower solar irradiance than southern Europe, but it's still viable for solar energy. Understanding the seasonal variation is critical for sizing your system — especially if you're considering off-grid.
4.5–5.5 kWh/m²/day average
- Long daylight hours (16–18 hours)
- Excellent solar production
- Most systems will produce surplus
- Export excess to grid or charge batteries
0.8–1.5 kWh/m²/day average
- Short daylight hours (8–9 hours)
- Low solar production
- Battery discharge is primary concern
- Backup generator likely needed for full off-grid
County-by-County Solar Potential
Southern and eastern counties (Cork, Waterford, Wexford, Dublin) receive 5–10% more solar irradiance than western and northern counties (Galway, Mayo, Donegal). This affects system sizing recommendations.
Peak Sun Hours (PSH): Ireland averages 2.5–3.0 PSH annually. Design your system for December (0.8–1.0 PSH) if you want true off-grid capability.
How to Size Your Off-Grid Solar System
Proper sizing is critical. Undersize and you'll run out of power in winter. Oversize and you'll waste money on panels that don't produce enough in summer to justify the cost.
The Irish Sizing Formula
Daily Usage (kWh) ÷ PSH (2.5) × 1.2 (system losses) = Minimum Solar Array (kW)
Example: 10 kWh/day ÷ 2.5 × 1.2 = 4.8kW minimum array
Typical Sizing for Irish Homes
| Home Type | Annual Usage | Recommended Solar | Recommended Battery |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1-bed apartment | 2,000 kWh | 1.5–2 kW | 5 kWh |
| 3-bed house | 3,500 kWh | 3–4 kW | 5–10 kWh |
| 4-bed house | 5,000 kWh | 4–6 kW | 10–15 kWh |
| Large home (off-grid) | 7,000+ kWh | 6–8 kW | 15–20 kWh + generator |
Battery Storage Options for Ireland
Battery storage is essential for any level of energy independence. Modern lithium-based batteries (LiFePO4) are the standard for residential use — they're safe, long-lasting, and efficient.
13.5 kWh usable
- 13.5 kWh capacity
- 11.5 kW continuous
- Integrated inverter
- €10,000–€12,000 installed
Popular Irish option
- 5–15 kWh scalable
- Good cold weather performance
- Compatible with Victron systems
- €5,000–€10,000 installed
Best value per kWh
- 5–22 kWh scalable
- 10-year warranty
- Excellent cycle life
- €4,500–€12,000 installed
Irish-Specific Considerations
- Cold weather performance: Most lithium batteries work down to -10°C, but capacity reduces in cold. Consider indoor installation in unheated spaces.
- Humidity: Irish climate requires proper ventilation to prevent condensation issues.
- Grid services: Some Irish battery installers can integrate with grid services for additional income — check if your system supports this.
Inverters and System Architecture
The inverter is the heart of your solar system. It converts DC power from panels and batteries into AC power for your home. Choosing the right architecture affects efficiency, expandability, and backup capability.
| Type | Best For | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| String Inverter | Simple grid-tied systems | Cheapest, reliable, easy to maintain | Panel shading reduces entire output |
| Hybrid Inverter | Grid-tied + battery | Manages solar + battery + grid | More expensive than string |
| AC-Coupled Battery | Retrofit battery to existing solar | Flexible, works with existing inverter | Slightly less efficient |
| Off-Grid Specific | Full off-grid systems | Designed for generator + battery | Most expensive, requires expert design |
Popular Irish Installations
- Victron Energy: Most popular for off-grid in Ireland; extensive dealer network
- SolarEdge: Good for grid-tied with battery; excellent monitoring
- Fronius: Austrian brand popular in Ireland; reliable
- GoodWe: Good value; growing market share
Backup Generators for Irish Off-Grid
If you're considering full off-grid in Ireland, a backup generator is practically essential. Irish winters produce so little solar that batteries alone will inevitably run out — unless you have generational backup.
Best for occasional backup
- 2–6 kW output
- Quiet operation (inverter type)
- €800–€2,500
- Runs 8–12 hours on tank
Best for frequent/heavy use
- 5–15 kW output
- More fuel efficient
- €3,000–€8,000
- Longer runtime
Generator Fuel Costs Add Up
Running a 3kW generator at half load uses approximately 1 litre of diesel per hour. At €1.50/litre, a week of winter backup could cost €100+ in fuel. Factor this into your off-grid economics.
How to Disconnect from the ESB Grid
If you decide full off-grid is right for you, here's how to formally disconnect from the ESB (Electricity Supply Board) grid in Ireland:
Contact Your Electricity Supplier
Notify your supplier (ESB National Grid, Electric Ireland, Bord Gáis, etc.) that you wish to terminate your supply agreement. They'll confirm your account balance and disconnection process.
Engage a Registered Electrical Contractor
Hire a REC (Registered Electrical Contractor) to isolate and disconnect your property's supply cable from the ESB network. They'll issue a completion certificate.
ESB Removes the Meter
Contact ESB Networks to arrange meter removal. They typically do this free of charge once your property is confirmed to have no active supply.
Keep Connection Point Intact
For most properties, you can keep the ESB connection point in place (but isolated) in case you want to reconnect in the future. This costs nothing and preserves optionality.
Reconnection Costs
If you later decide to reconnect to the grid, ESB Networks will treat this as a new connection. Costs range from €3,000–€15,000+ depending on your location and distance from the nearest infrastructure. Keep your connection point intact if there's any doubt about staying off-grid permanently.
Ireland vs UK: Off-Grid Comparison
Many Irish homeowners look to UK sources for off-grid information, but there are significant differences in regulations, grants, and economics between the two countries.
| Factor | Ireland | United Kingdom |
|---|---|---|
| Planning Permission | Clear exempt development rules (2022) | Conservation areas create complexity |
| Solar Grant | SEAI: Up to €2,800 | BUS: £7,500 (heat pumps only, not solar) |
| VAT on Solar | 0% since May 2023 | 20% standard rate |
| Export Payments | No mandatory scheme | Smart Export Guarantee mandatory |
| Grid Disconnection | Straightforward process | DNO process required |
| Solar Irradiance | 2.5–3.0 PSH annual average | 2.8–3.2 PSH (slightly higher in south) |
Ireland Has Better Solar Incentives
The combination of SEAI grants (up to €2,800) and 0% VAT makes Ireland more attractive for solar investment than the UK. British homeowners have no dedicated solar grant — the Boiler Upgrade Scheme only applies to heat pumps.
Irish Solar Installers and Brands
Using a local Irish installer ensures compliance with Irish regulations and simplifies warranty claims. SEAI maintains a register of approved contractors.
- Platinum Solar: Nationwide, SEAI registered
- EcoHeat: Dublin-based, good reviews
- GreenTech Solutions: Cork, experienced with off-grid
- SolarWise Ireland: Galway, good remote area coverage
- Going Solar: Kerry, specialist in rural installations
- Panels: JA Solar, Trina, Longi, REC (European made)
- Inverters: Victron, SolarEdge, Fronius, GoodWe
- Batteries: Tesla, BYD, Fox ESS, Pylontech
- Mounting: K2 Systems, Schletter (galvanized for Irish weather)
Choosing an Installer
- Verify they are SEAI registered (check SEAI website)
- Get at least 3 quotes for comparison
- Ask for references from similar installations
- Check warranty terms — minimum 5 years for panels, 2 years for inverter
- Ensure they handle the grant application process for you
Water and Waste: Beyond Electricity
True off-grid living involves more than just electricity. Most off-grid Irish properties also need solutions for water supply and wastewater management.
- Rainwater harvesting: Legal in Ireland; typical 3-bed house collects 25,000–35,000 litres/year
- Private borehole: €5,000–€15,000 to drill; requires testing
- Group water schemes: Common in rural Ireland; connection fees vary
- Surface water/spring: Requires filtration; less reliable
- Septic tank: Most common; requires registration since 2012
- Treatment system: Required in high-risk areas; €8,000–€20,000
- Composting toilet: No water needed; good for remote cabins
- Greywater system: Recycles shower/bath water for irrigation
Seasonal Considerations for Irish Off-Grid
The Irish climate presents specific challenges for off-grid living. Understanding the seasonal patterns helps you plan your system for year-round reliability.
Spring (March–May): Installation Season
Solar production increases rapidly. This is the ideal time for installation — before summer demand peaks. SEAI grant applications spike in January–March.
Summer (June–August): Production Peak
Maximum solar output. Systems typically produce 150–200% of winter output. Export surplus to grid (if grid-tied) or focus on charging batteries for winter.
Autumn (September–November): Transition
Rapidly declining production. This is when you should assess your battery state of charge heading into winter. Consider generator fuel top-ups.
Winter (December–February): Challenge Season
Minimal solar production (10–20% of summer). Short days, cloud cover, and storms. Full off-grid systems will heavily rely on batteries and generator. This is when most systems fail without proper planning.
Return on Investment and Payback Period
How long until your solar investment pays for itself? The answer depends on your system type, usage patterns, and whether you remain grid-connected.
| System Type | Total Investment | Annual Savings | Payback Period |
|---|---|---|---|
| Grid-tied 2kW (no battery) | €4,000–€5,500 | €500–€700/year | 6–8 years |
| Grid-tied 3kW + 5kWh battery | €8,000–€11,000 | €800–€1,100/year | 7–10 years |
| Grid-tied 4kW + 10kWh battery | €12,000–€16,000 | €1,000–€1,400/year | 9–13 years |
| Full off-grid 5kW + 15kWh | €20,000–€30,000 | €1,200–€1,600/year | 15–22 years |
Factors That Improve Payback
- High daytime electricity usage (use solar generation when produced)
- Maximising SEAI grant (apply for battery top-up)
- Installing during off-peak season (autumn/winter may have installer discounts)
- Good south-facing roof with minimal shading
- For grid-tied: using Smart Export Guarantee if available
Energy Efficiency Before Going Off-Grid
Before investing in a large solar system, reduce your energy consumption. Every kWh you don't use is a kWh you don't need to generate. This is especially important for off-grid.
- Heat pump: Uses 1/3 the electricity of direct electric heating
- LED lighting: 80% less than incandescent
- Insulation: Reduces heating demand dramatically
- Energy-efficient appliances: A-rated or better
- Smart thermostat: Optimises heating schedules
- Gas for cooking/heating: Propane doesn't need electricity
- Wood burning: Most sustainable off-grid heating option
- Solar thermal: Hot water without electricity
- Passive solar design: Reduces heating and lighting needs
The Off-Grid Rule of Thumb
For every €1 spent on energy efficiency, you save €3–€5 on solar system costs. Reduce your load before sizing your system. A 3,000 kWh/year home needs a much smaller — and cheaper — solar system than a 6,000 kWh/year home.
Maintenance Requirements
Solar systems are low-maintenance, but they aren't maintenance-free. Understanding what ongoing work is required helps you plan and budget.
| Task | Frequency | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Panel cleaning | 2–4 times/year | DIY or €50–€100/service |
| System inspection | Annual | €100–€200 |
| Inverter replacement | Every 10–15 years | €1,500–€3,000 |
| Battery replacement | Every 10–15 years | €4,000–€10,000 |
| Generator service | Annual | €100–€200 |
Irish Weather Considerations
Ireland's Atlantic climate means systems get dirty quickly from rain and sea spray. Panels near the coast (especially in counties Cork, Galway, Donegal) may need cleaning every 6–8 weeks. Moss and algae growth on panels is common — scrape or pressure wash as needed.
Insurance Considerations for Off-Grid
Inform your home insurance provider before or after installing solar. Most Irish insurers now routinely cover solar installations, but you should confirm coverage and any premium implications.
What to Tell Your Insurer
- System size (kW) and value
- Whether it's grid-tied or off-grid
- Battery type and location
- Any backup generation equipment
- Professional installation confirmation
Good News: Most Irish Insurers Welcome Solar
Unlike the UK where some mainstream insurers decline off-grid properties, Irish insurers (including FBD, Zurich, AIG, and Axa) generally cover solar installations with minimal premium impact. Some even offer discounts for properties with renewable energy systems.
Mortgages and Property Value
How solar and off-grid systems affect mortgages and property value is a common concern in Ireland. The situation has improved significantly in recent years.
Property Value Impact: Positive
Multiple studies show properties with solar sell for 4–6% more than comparable non-solar properties. A well-documented, professionally installed system is a selling point, not a deterrent. Ensure you keep all documentation and warranty papers for the next owner.
Mortgage Considerations
If you have a mortgage, check your terms. Some lenders require notification of significant property modifications. For grid-tied systems, there's typically no issue. For full off-grid, some lenders may request an assessment to ensure the property remains suitable as security.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Based on our analysis of Irish off-grid installations, here are the most common errors that cost homeowners money:
Undersizing for Winter
Designing for summer output means you'll run out of power in December–January.
Skipping the Battery Grant
The €1,000 SEAI battery top-up is easy to claim — don't leave money on the table.
No Backup Plan for Winter
A generator is almost essential for full off-grid in Ireland — include it in your budget.
Choosing Cheapest Installer
The cheapest quote often means substandard equipment or poor workmanship. Get 3 quotes.
Not Assessing Energy Efficiency First
Spending €20,000 on solar when you could spend €2,000 on insulation first is wasteful.
Key Takeaways
- Off-grid is legal — No planning permission for most solar; grid disconnection is your choice
- SEAI grants are generous — Up to €1,800 for solar + €1,000 for battery = €2,800 total
- 0% VAT — Residential solar has zero VAT since May 2023
- Grid-tied + battery is better for most — 5–9 year payback vs 15–22 years for full off-grid
- Winter is the challenge — Irish winters produce 10–20% of summer solar; plan for this
- Ireland beats the UK — Better grants (€2,800 vs £0), 0% VAT vs 20%, simpler planning
- Efficiency first — Reduce your load before sizing your system
Your Next Steps
Use our calculators to determine your energy needs and system size.
Deep-dive into specific aspects of off-grid living.
Ready to Start?
The best time to start your off-grid journey is now. Begin with understanding your energy usage, then get quotes from SEAI-registered installers.
Pro tip: Apply for your SEAI grant early in the year. Applications spike January–March as people use their tax year budget. Late summer/early autumn typically has faster processing times.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it legal to live off-grid in Ireland?
Yes. Since the 2022 rule changes, most residential solar installations in Ireland fall under exempt development — no planning permission required. This covers rooftop solar on houses and ground-mounted panels up to 25m². Fully disconnecting from ESB (the national grid) is also legal — there's no legal requirement to remain connected.
What is the SEAI solar grant in Ireland for 2026?
The SEAI Solar PV Grant offers up to €1,800 for a typical 1-2kW system (€900/kW, maximum €1,800). There's an additional €1,000 top-up if you install battery storage alongside solar. The grant covers solar panels, inverter, mounting hardware, and installation labour. As of May 2023, residential solar also enjoys 0% VAT.
How much does an off-grid solar system cost in Ireland?
A complete off-grid system for an Irish home costs €12,000–€35,000+ (2026 prices): 1kW system (~€2,500–€3,500), 3kW system (~€6,000–€9,000), 5kW system (~€9,000–€14,000. Battery storage adds €3,000–€12,000 depending on capacity. After SEAI grants (up to €2,800 combined) and VAT savings (0% since May 2023), net costs are significantly reduced.
Do I need planning permission for off-grid solar in Ireland?
Usually no. Under Ireland's 2022 planning exemptions, rooftop solar on houses is exempt development — no planning permission needed. Ground-mounted solar up to 25m² is also exempt. You must notify your local authority before starting, and the installation must be carried out by a registered contractor. Properties in designated areas (conservation, ACA) may have restrictions.
How many solar panels do I need to go off-grid in Ireland?
A typical Irish 3-bedroom home uses 3,000–4,500 kWh/year. To achieve full off-grid status, most homes need a 4–6kW solar array (12–18 × 400W panels) plus 10–20kWh of battery storage. Irish winters produce only 10–20% of summer output, so you'll need either significant battery capacity (3–5 days autonomy) or a backup generator for the darkest months.
What is the payback period for off-grid solar in Ireland?
With SEAI grants and 0% VAT, a 3kW grid-tied system pays back in 5–7 years. A full off-grid system with batteries (€15,000–€25,000 total) takes 12–20 years to pay back — significantly longer. The economics are better for grid-tied solar with battery backup (€8,000–€12,000) at 6–9 years payback. Off-grid only makes sense if grid connection costs exceed €10,000 or you value energy independence highly.
Can I get a mortgage on an off-grid property in Ireland?
Irish banks (AIB, Permanent TSB, Ulster Bank) have become more receptive to off-grid properties in recent years, but mainstream lenders still treat them as non-standard. Expect higher documentation requirements, possibly a 10–15% higher interest rate, and assessment of the property's energy performance (BER rating). Properties with proven, well-maintained renewable systems are viewed more favorably than those described as 'off-grid' without documentation.
How does off-grid living in Ireland compare to the UK?
Ireland has clearer planning exemptions (2022) than England/Wales, where conservation areas and Article 4 directions create more complexity. Irish SEAI grants (up to €2,800 combined) are more generous than the UK's Boiler Upgrade Scheme (£7,500 for heat pumps, nothing specifically for solar). Both countries have similar solar irradiance (Ireland slightly lower), but Ireland's 0% VAT on residential solar since May 2023 is a significant advantage over the UK's 20% VAT.
Sources
- Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) — Solar PV Grant: rates, eligibility, and application process
- ESB Networks — grid connection, disconnection, and meter removal for Irish properties
- Met Éireann (Irish Meteorological Service) — climate and solar irradiance data for system sizing
- Citizens Information (Ireland) — grants for home renovations and energy improvements