The Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage (DHLGH) introduced the Energy Efficiency Retrofit Programme (EERP) to support the upgrade of local authority housing stock, with the objective of achieving a Building Energy Rating (BER) of B2 or cost-optimal equivalent.

The programme provides significant funding to improve the energy efficiency of social housing, with a particular focus on fabric-first measures. Typical works delivered under the programme include the installation of heat pumps, wall and attic insulation, and the replacement of windows and doors.

To date, 429 social homes across the county have benefited from works completed under the EERP, resulting in improved energy performance, enhanced living conditions, and reduced energy costs for tenants. In 2026, we received approval from the DHLGH for works to 125 properties under the EERP, supported by funding of €5 million, inclusive of project management costs. 

There are no standalone grant schemes available to social housing tenants to undertake BER improvement works independently. All such upgrade works are delivered directly by the Council under the national programme, ensuring a co-ordinated, consistent and cost-effective approach to improving the energy performance of the social housing portfolio.