Better Energy Homes · Heat pump · 2026 rate
Last updated:
The SEAI heat pump grant — up to €12,500, when the bundle fits.
From 3 February 2026, the maximum heat pump grant rose to €12,500 — €6,500 for the heat pump itself, €2,000 for central heating distribution upgrades, and a €4,000 renewable heat bonus when you replace fossil-fuel or electric heating. Not every home qualifies for all three components. This is the independent guide to who does, what it really costs, and the application sequence that doesn't lose the grant.
Last verified: May 2026 against SEAI published rates. Independent guide — not affiliated with SEAI.
How Much Is the Heat Pump System Grant?
The full bundle can reach €12,500 depending on dwelling type and components (including radiator/pipework upgrades and renewable heat bonus). The main components are:
| Component | Amount |
|---|---|
| Heat pump system | Up to €6,500 |
| Central heating distribution upgrade | Up to €2,000 |
| Renewable heat bonus | Up to €4,000 |
| Maximum combined support | Up to €12,500 |
Caveats: apartments are capped at €9,500; air-to-air systems are capped at €7,500; and not all homes qualify for every component. The central heating distribution upgrade and renewable heat bonus depend on the works and the heating system being replaced.
Not all components apply to every home — eligibility depends on dwelling type and works.
Who Qualifies for the Heat Pump Grant?
Heat pumps are more demanding on eligibility than simpler measures like attic insulation. Key requirements:
MPRN, built and occupied before 2021
The home must have an MPRN and be built and occupied before 2021. Final eligibility is confirmed by SEAI.
No prior heat pump grant for this home
If a previous owner received the heat pump grant, you generally cannot apply again for the same property.
Home must be thermally suitable
SEAI recommends a technical assessment before applying. Heat pumps are most efficient in well-insulated homes. Older, drafty homes may need insulation first.
SEAI-registered heat pump installer
The contractor must be specifically registered with SEAI to install heat pumps. Check the SEAI contractor register before signing any contract.
Apply before any work starts
Grant approval in writing must be obtained from SEAI before the contractor begins any installation work.
What the Process Looks Like
Get a BER assessment (recommended)
A BER assessor visits your home and produces a Building Energy Rating. This costs €150–€350. SEAI contributes €50 toward this cost. It confirms your current rating and what improvements are needed.
Get 3 quotes from SEAI-registered heat pump installers
Use the SEAI contractor register to verify each installer. Compare quotes on scope of work, heat pump model, and warranty — not just price.
Apply for grant approval at hes.seai.ie
Submit your application online before work starts. You'll need your MPRN (on your electricity bill), property details, and the quote from your chosen installer.
Receive written approval from SEAI
SEAI sends written approval, usually within a few weeks. Do not allow any work to start until you have this letter.
Installation is carried out
Your registered installer completes the work. For a heat pump, this typically takes 2–5 days and includes commissioning and handover.
Grant processed and you pay the balance
For individual grants, you typically pay your contractor and then claim the grant (paid to the applicant or, in some cases, the contractor once paperwork is approved). For One Stop Shop projects, the grant is deducted upfront by the provider.
Common Mistakes With the Heat Pump Grant
Choosing an installer not on the SEAI register
Many general plumbing/heating contractors are not SEAI-registered for heat pumps specifically. Verify at seai.ie/contractor-register before signing.
Installing before receiving written approval
Even if your application is submitted, you cannot start work until SEAI issues written approval. The approval letter date is what matters.
Not accounting for heating distribution system upgrades
Heat pumps run at lower flow temperatures than gas boilers. Many homes need larger radiators or underfloor heating to work efficiently — the €2,000 distribution component may not cover the full cost.
Skipping insulation before the heat pump
Installing a heat pump in a poorly insulated home leads to high running costs. SEAI recommends fabric-first: insulate first, then upgrade to a heat pump.
Confusing the heat pump grant with the heating controls grant
Don’t confuse the Heat Pump System Grant with the Heating Controls Grant. Heating controls support is for upgrading an existing heating system; the heat pump grant replaces the heating system and has its own grant components.
Realistic Costs vs Grant Amount
Heat pump installations are a significant investment. The grant reduces but does not eliminate the cost. Here's what to expect for a typical Irish home:
| Item | Typical Range |
|---|---|
| Air-to-water heat pump unit | €3,000–€7,000 |
| Installation + pipework | €2,000–€5,000 |
| Hot water cylinder (if needed) | €800–€1,500 |
| Radiator upgrades (if needed) | €1,000–€5,000 |
| Total typical cost | €9,000–€18,000 |
| SEAI Heat Pump Grant (varies by system/dwelling) | −€6,500–€12,500 |
| Your out-of-pocket cost (indicative) | Varies — get quotes |
Costs for a typical 3–4 bed semi-detached home. Actual costs vary by property, contractor, and region. Always get 3 quotes.
Find out in 3 minutes
See whether the heat pump grant applies to your home.
Six questions — property type, age, BER, heating, welfare, prior grants — and you'll see every SEAI grant that may apply, including which heat pump bundle components you could claim.
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