People in Cork Encouraged to Avail of Grants to Lower Energy Bills – O’Shea

Households across Cork should take advantage of the wide range of Government-backed grants available to make their homes more energy efficient and reduce their energy bills, Cork North West Fine Gael TD John Paul O’Shea has said.

The call comes as new figures show a record surge in applications for Energy Upgrade Grants, with over 29,000 applications processed in the first quarter of 2026 alone, an increase of 96% on the same period last year.

Speaking today, Deputy O’Shea said “I am encouraging every household in Cork to look closely at the grants on offer and see what works for them. Whether it’s attic insulation, new windows and doors, a heat pump, or solar panels, these upgrades can make a real and lasting difference to your energy bills and to the comfort of your home.

“In the midst of an ongoing energy crisis, the Government is here to help. By offering generous grants to lower bills and make homes warmer, we are putting money back into people’s pockets while also cutting carbon emissions. This is a win-win for households.”

The latest figures include over 1,730 applications for attic insulation (up 81%), more than 1,000 for cavity wall insulation (up 62%), over 350 for heat pump installations (up 95%), more than 7,000 for the new windows and doors grant, and over 10,000 for Solar PV (up 65%). In addition, more than 1,500 homes at risk of energy poverty have been upgraded under the Warmer Homes Scheme to the end of March, at an average cost per home of €31,000.

Grants currently available include:

• Attic insulation: up to €2,000 (€2,500 for first-time buyers)

• Wall insulation: up to €8,000

• Windows: up to €4,000 / Doors: up to €1,600

• Heat pump system: up to €12,500

• Heating controls: up to €700

• Solar PV: up to €1,800

• Solar thermal (hot water): up to €1,200

Deputy O’Shea also drew attention to the Warmer Homes Scheme, which provides free energy upgrades to vulnerable homeowners, including those in receipt of Fuel Allowance.

“The Warmer Homes Scheme is one of the most important supports we have. It delivers free upgrades, insulation, draught-proofing, lagging jackets, energy-efficient lighting, and in some cases new heating systems and windows, to the people who need them most. I would urge anyone who thinks they may qualify to get in touch with my office and we will help them through the process.

“These grants are there to be used. My team and I are ready to help any constituent in Cork North West navigate the application process and access the supports they are entitled to,” concluded Deputy O’Shea.