It's true: the sooner you get solar panels, the sooner you can start saving money and reducing your carbon footprint. But are there other eco-measures that you should take before installing a solar PV system in your home? This page tells you what main steps you can take to save money and lower your CO2 emissions, as well as roughly what order you might want to take them in.
In an ideal world, we could all switch to renewable energy sources, ditch the petrol car and insulate our homes all at once. That way, everyone could start saving money and slashing carbon emissions tomorrow. But, even with government grants, changes like these require significant investment. And so, for most families in Ireland, it's a question of which steps to take when and in what order.
Should I get an electric car, first, followed by a heat pump? Or, would solar panels and home insulation be more logical first steps?
This page takes you through all the main steps that homeowners typically take to reduce their bills and emissions here in Ireland. By the end of this article, you should have a good idea what steps you can take, the order to take them in, and the potential returns you can expect from each.
If you haven't already done so, insulating your home is almost certainly the most important and impactful step you can take to reduce your energy bills and carbon emissions. According to the SEAI, a home can lose up to 30% of its heat through poorly insulated roofs and walls, meaning that a typical Irish household can save up to €600 per year on heating bills just by properly insulating the attic and walls (source ).
For this reason, insulating your home is almost certainly the first energy-saving measure you should undertake, ahead of solar panels or anything else.
Insulate the attic, walls, and floors: Focus on these areas first, as they are responsible for the most significant heat loss.
Upgrade window glazing: At the same time as improving your home's insulation, it's a good idea to upgrade your windows to double or triple glazing if needed. See more on upgrading window glazing in the next section.
Attic insulation typically ranges from between €450 to €700.
Cavity wall insulation can range from between €600 to €1,700. Solid wall insulation tends to be a lot more expensive, ranging from between €6,000 and €10,000.
A typical ground floor insulation costs between €900 to €1,400.
SEAI offers grants towards the cost of home insulation
Up to €600 per year on heating bills.
Up to 900 kg per year
Do this job before anything else. Starting with home insulation ensures that further investments, such as window glazing upgrades, heat pumps and solar panels, are more effective. Find out more on the SEAI website...
According to the SEAI, up to ten per cent of a typical Irish home's heat is wasted by being lost through the windows and doors (source ). That's not as much as is lost through uninsulated walls and loft spaces, but it's an awful lot of money and carbon to be wasting.
It is hard to find reliable, independent data on precisely how much energy is saved by switching from single to double or triple glazing. Most sources claim that a typical Irish homeowner switching from single panes can save 20%-30% with double-glazed windows, and up to 50% with triple-glazing. These numbers do vary, and sources aren't always impartial. But (for the nerds out there) here's what we can say for sure...
A window's thermal transmittance is described by scientists as a U-value (measured in Watts per square meter per Kelvin or W/m2K). The higher the U-value, the more heat a window loses. The U-value of typical single glazing is around 5 to 5.6 W/m2K. For standard double glazing (with air cavity), this is reduced to about 2.8 W/m2K. And for triple glazing, the value can be less than 1.0 W/m2K (source ).
Contact local fitters of double and triple glazing, getting several quotes. If possible, this should be done at the same time as insulating your home, or shortly after. Note: you shouldn't necessarily go for the cheapest supplier. Choose a fitter who you think you can trust to come back and resolve any issues you may have in the first year or two after installation.
Per window: from €520 to for double-glazing and €650 for triple-glazing.
Per house (3-bed house with 9 windows): €4,680 for double glazing and €5,850 for triple glazing.
Numbers vary wildly based on many different factors. But a typical Irish home could expect to reduce their bills by €150-200 per year by switching from single to double or triple glazing. Purely as a financial investment, then, the payback period can seem very long. But that's only if you assume that the alternative is to keep your old windows as they are for a further 20+ years. In most cases, it's a question of when, not if, we replace our windows. If you do it sooner, you reduce your energy bills sooner, too.
Up to 700kg annually for double-glazing, and up to 850kg annually for triple-glazing.
Based on these numbers, upgrading your glazing comes in a close second as a means of reducing your energy bills and carbon emissions. Before investing in anything else, fix the leaks in the bucket.
When set up correctly, a domestic solar PV system can completely eliminate an Irish family home's usage of fossil fuels for electricity production. By going solar, you can make your electricity consumption carbon-neutral or even net positive (where you add green energy to the grid for other people to use). In 2024, this is no longer a fantasy or an aspiration: several members of our team here at PureVolt Solar are already making money by having a mini solar farm on their roof, storing and using their energy wisely, and selling any excess back to the grid.
Install Photovoltaic (PV) panels: A 3-5 kW system is typical for a semi-detached home (more about solar costs and savings in Ireland). You will likely want to shop around a few SEAI-registered solar companies in your area and get a few quotes. As a solar company ourselves, we have skin in the game here, so you should go with what feels right for you. But be sure to check your solar company's reviews so you can find an installer you can trust before, during and after installation.
Your solar installation company will guide you through the SEAI solar grant application process and make sure you get the right amount of government support.
For maximum financial and carbon savings, a solar battery definitely makes sense in most cases. Your solar PV company will guide you on this, of course. Our numbers here assume a solar battery will be included in your system. That way, you can take advantage of your solar power right through the evening and the night, not just when the sun is shining.
€6,000-€10,000 (before grants). See our full solar prices guide here...
SEAI offers up to €2,100 on solar panels
€860 on electricity bills.
About 1,305 kg annually.
Solar panels offer big savings and energy security from day one. Combining solar energy and battery storage, a family in Ireland can end their reliance on electricity from fossil fuels for good. So solar panels are of huge benefit to you, the homeowner, but also to the planet as a whole. If your house is already well insulated, solar panels will probably be the next logical step for you to take in reducing your bills and emissions.
Taking heat energy from the surrounding environment and turning it into renewable energy, heat pumps are up to 300% more efficient than gas boilers. Just like solar panels can for your electricity, a heat pump can effectively put an end to heating-based fossil fuel usage and the ongoing energy costs that come with it. Also, like solar panels, heat pumps are eligible for an SEAI grant.
You will need a SEAI-registered heat pump installation specialist to install your heat pump. As with any major investment like this, it pays to get a few quotes and check their past reviews for an idea of what the after-sales care is like.
Heat pumps come in different forms, and your installer will be able to advise which type will work best for your home. For most Irish homes, an air-source heat pump will suffice — this is one which draws heat from the outside air using an external unit. Ground-source heat pumps are also available, but are usually more expensive. Also, due to their larger size, these are only suitable for properties with enough outdoor space to house them.
Air-source heat pumps range from €12,000 to €18,000 (before grants).
SEAI offers heat pump grants of up to €6,500
Air source heat pumps can help you save approximately 50% on your annual energy bills. They will not eliminate your ongoing costs completely. This is because the heat pump itself uses electricity in a quantity which, especially during winter, is unlikely to be covered by the surplus from your solar panels.
In some cases, especially during the coldest parts of the year, the ASHP might not meet the entire heating demand, and supplementary heating may be necessary. This adds to your energy costs.
Around 2,900kg kg annually.
Once you have properly insulated your home and added a solar PV system, installing a heat pump is the next most effective step to cut your costs and carbon footprint, especially if you're currently using fossil fuels for heating. It is not worth getting a heat pump until you have properly insulated your roof, walls, windows and doors. This is because a poorly insulated home will require a more powerful and expensive heat pump than your house would otherwise need.
Road vehicles are still Ireland's biggest producer of non-ETS emissions, producing 56.9% of the Republic's emitted carbon. (The Emissions Trading System or ETS covers large industries, electricity generators, and the aviation industry. Non-ETS covers homes, cars, small businesses and agriculture). If Ireland is serious about meeting its net-zero targets, its citizens will need to make the switch from gasoline-powered cars to electric vehicles or other modes of transport.
Unlike gasoline-powered vehicles, EVs produce no tailpipe emissions, which helps reduce air pollution and greenhouse gases. It can also make road-users less vulnerable to fluctuations in oil prices.
To get the full benefit of EVs, it definitely pays to have solar panels in place first. Charging your electric car from grid electricity is definitely better than using a petrol or diesel car. Especially if you charge your vehicle at off-peak times, when most grid electricity comes from renewable sources. But the best solution of all is to charge your EV from the 100% renewable electricity generated by your own solar panels. By using renewable energy sources, you're minimizing the overall carbon footprint of your vehicle, making your transportation as eco-friendly as possible.
If you are able to walk, cycle, use public transport or share a car, then buying an EV might be a waste of money and carbon. After all, producing a machine of this size, sourcing and transporting its components from all across the earth – it all uses carbon. If you make infrequent journeys, then something like a car share scheme or even renting an EV might make more sense than buying one outright.
Electric cars are not cheap, so be sure to shop around and find the right make and model for you. Be sure to check that the EV's range suits your daily needs and that you have access to convenient home or public charging.
In particular, pay attention to the battery warranty. The battery is the most expensive component of an EV and, over time, its capacity can degrade and reduce the vehicle's range. A comprehensive warranty ensures that you're covered for any significant loss in battery performance or unexpected failures, providing peace of mind and helping to preserve the resale value of your vehicle.
Currently, the average price for a new electric vehicle in Ireland is €65,000.
SEAI offers grants ranging from €1,500 to €3,500 towards the cost of electric vehicles . Also, up to €300 of support is available towards the purchase and installation of an EV home charger unit .
You can cut your transport costs by 50 to 60%! Home charging may see an increase on your electricity bill (depending on whether you have surplus from your solar panels), but this is balanced out by the elimination of petrol or diesel costs.
Up to 2,000 kg annually, depending on usage.
An EV is a major investment but offers substantial long-term savings and CO2 reductions, especially when integrated with renewable energy sources.
Reducing our energy consumption doesn't have to mean huge personal sacrifices or changes in lifestyle. As we have already seen on this page, a lot of the energy we consume is needlessly wasted. If we can reduce this wastage, we can slash our bills and our emissions without changing our lifestyles at all. Smart home energy management systems can play a significant role in how we achieve this.
Smart home devices, such as smart thermostats, can significantly reduce wastage by learning our habits and adjusting our homes' heating, cooling and lighting to minimise energy waste. For example, when you're out, the heating goes off. When you're nearly home, it comes back on again. In effect, devices like these turn a traditional house into a twenty-first-century smart home. According to studies published by the International Energy Agency's 4E website, simple upgrades like these can reduce your home's energy usage by as much as 30%.
Allocate a budget and prioritise the items which you think will have the biggest impact on your energy consumption. Think about day and night usage, when you're home and when you're out, too. Then shop around for the best deals.
Smart thermostats optimize heating and cooling by learning your habits and adjusting temperatures automatically, reducing energy waste and saving on heating bills. Popular models include the Google Nest Learning Thermostat and the tado° Smart Thermostat.
Smart lighting allows you to control lights remotely, dim them, or set schedules, ensuring lights are only used when necessary and cutting down on electricity costs. Recommended products include the Philips Hue Starter Kit and LIFX smart bulbs.
Smart plugs help eliminate standby power waste by allowing you to schedule or remotely turn off devices that continue to draw power when not in use. Recommended models include the TP-Link Kasa Smart Plug and Amazon Smart Plug.
Smart power strips can manage multiple devices, such as entertainment systems, ensuring that devices are only powered when needed, reducing unnecessary energy consumption. A popular option is the BN-Link Wi-Fi Smart Power Strip.
Automating blinds or curtains can reduce heating and cooling needs by utilizing natural light for passive temperature control, reducing energy demand on HVAC systems. Great options include Soma Smart Shades and Ikea FYRTUR Smart Blinds.
Motion sensors ensure that lights or heating only operate when rooms are occupied, eliminating energy wastage in unoccupied areas of your home. Popular choices are the Philips Hue Motion Sensor and Aqara Motion Sensor.
Smart water heater controls allow you to schedule water heating more efficiently, reducing unnecessary energy usage when hot water is not needed. Recommended options include the Rheem EcoNet Smart Water Heater Controller.
These systems track your overall energy consumption, allowing you to see where energy is being wasted and adjust usage accordingly. Popular options include the Sense Energy Monitor and Emporia Vue Smart Home Energy Monitor.
Financial savings are very hard to calculate because there are so many variables in play. If we assume that you have not yet taken any of the other eco steps outlined on this page, then an upfront investment of around €1000 could reduce your annual energy expenses by over €500.
Again, with so many variables, the carbon reduction is hard to calculate. But making the assumptions as we did for financial savings above, an upfront investment of around €1000 could reduce your annual CO2 emissions by over 700kg.
Future-proofing your home with smart device upgrades makes for a relatively small and potential piecemeal investment with a significant impact on energy efficiency. To get the maximum benefit, yes of course it makes sense to have solar panels and a heat pump already in place. But if you don't have the money for those big-ticket items right now, smart home upgrades can be a great place to start.
Switching to energy-efficient appliances is a simple way to reduce energy use and your carbon footprint. Today's modern appliances use significantly less electricity and water than older models, which means lower utility bills and a more eco-friendly home.
Newer models often come with smart features that optimise performance, like refrigerators that maintain temperatures more efficiently or washing machines that use less water per load. By choosing energy-efficient appliances, you also help reduce the strain on the power grid, especially during peak times, which contributes to a cleaner energy future.
However, it's not always an open-shut case on whether we should switch to all energy-efficient appliances overnight. It takes a lot of energy (and carbon) to produce and ship the new appliances. So, if you bought a new washing machine three years ago, and it's working pretty well, it's probably not worth upgrading it just yet.
There are many variables to consider here, and so calculations and forecasts aren't easy to get right. But, as a rough rule of thumb, if your appliance is more than 10 years old, it's probably worth going for a replacement rather than a repair next time it is playing up. If your appliance is less than 10 years old and still working well, a repair and continued use will probably produce less carbon than a replacement.
Gradually replace appliances which are more than 10 years old. Look for models rated as A or higher under the EU's A to G appliance rating guidelines .
Wherever possible, run appliances like washing machines and dishwashers overnight. That way, you're saving money and most likely using 100% renewable energy sources (these are available day and night, whereas fossil fuels tend to be used mostly to cover peak times).
€800-€1200
€1000-€1300
€500-€1000
By switching from an F-rated 7kg capacity machine to an A-rated 14kg machine, you can save approximately €40 per year and reduce your CO2 emissions by two-thirds to just 12kg per year. That's not huge – equivalent to something like a 62-mile journey in a petrol car (see our assumptions ). You can reduce your emissions by much more than this by using the timer function to run your wash cycle overnight, when grid electricity is generated almost exclusively by renewable sources.
By switching from an F-rated dishwasher to an A-rated equivalent, you can save approximately €45 per year and reduce your CO2 emissions by 28kg per year (see our assumptions). As with the washing machine above, you can make a bigger impact on your emissions by using the timer function to run your wash cycle overnight.
By switching from an F-rated fridge-freezer to an A-rated equivalent, you can reduce your annual energy spend by up to €45 per year. In so doing, you can shave approximately 25kg carbon from your annual footprint (see our assumptions... ).
Compared to some of the measures on this page, this is a relatively low-priority step. But it's definitely worth considering for appliances which are more than 10 years old and which do not have a timer function which lets you run them overnight.
Full disclosure: switching to a green energy provider does not immediately or directly result in more clean energy being generated in Ireland. On your first day with a green energy company, the Irish grid will use the same fossil fuels it did the day before. The units of electricity that power the appliances in your home will be no different whether you are on a green tariff or not.
For many people, though, that's not the point. For those who can't immediately make the switch to solar, changing to a green energy supplier is more symbolic. It's a statement and a signal sent to the energy market that demand for clean energy is rising and demand for fossil fuels is falling. In effect, you are voting with your wallet and supporting the renewable energy industry.
Start by researching green energy providers in Ireland that offer 100% renewable energy. Look for companies that clearly disclose their energy sources and have certifications or accreditations in renewable energy.
Compare the plans from different providers. Look at the percentage of renewable energy they offer, the cost per unit of electricity, customer service ratings, and any extra benefits like discounts for using less energy during peak hours.
Review the contract's terms, including any fixed rates, potential price increases, and contract length. Ensure there are no hidden fees or charges for switching providers.
Once you've chosen a provider, follow their steps to switch. Usually, this means contacting the new provider, who will take care of the service transfer.
After switching, keep an eye on your electricity usage and bills to ensure that you are getting the promised benefits. Many providers offer online tools to help you track your energy use and the environmental impact of your switch.
If a 100% renewable plan isn't an option, consider green tariffs that support renewable energy projects or offset your carbon emissions.
There should be little or no upfront cost to changing energy suppliers. However, by switching to a green energy provider, the ongoing cost of your electricity bill may increase.
Varies depending on your household's energy usage but can be significant over time.
How much are you willing to pay to signal to the market that you want clean energy and nothing else? If you believe that, by voting with your wallet, you can effect meaningful change and lead to longer-term growth in clean energy production, then switching to a clean energy provider may give you peace of mind. If you're more about the cold hard facts, then a green energy provider won't make Ireland's energy supply any more green than any other.
All calculations on this page are estimates. Wherever official data is available, we have tried to use it.
We have based our calculations on a three-bedroom house. According to Ireland's Census of Population 2022, this is the most common house size (36% of all dwellings).
Gas and electricity prices are based on 2024 average prices.
Where we have included an estimated CO2 reduction, we have assumed that other measures on the page have not yet been taken. So, using less electricity means less CO2 emissions because we have assumed no solar PV system is yet in place. With solar panels in place, the CO2 reduction could be less because most electricity usage would be renewable.
Where appliances draw power 24/7, we have assumed that they draw equal power at all times of day and night. This is not strictly accurate. For example, a fridge-freezer uses more power when the doors are being opened (i.e. during the day). But the calculation would get very complicated if we try to estimate how many times the door is opened during the day, what additional power this consumes etc. So, for simplicity, we have just assumed that all-day appliances draw a equal power during day-rate and night-rate hours.
Our washing machine savings assume that equal loads of washing are run at all times of day and night. They are therefore proportionally spread across day-rate and night-rate charging periods. This gives a current average price of €0.2942, weighted according to the number of day-rate hours (15) and night-rate hours (9). In reality, is likely that families with a newer washing machine can run more loads overnight because they are so much quieter. Electricity consumed overnight is cheaper, and is also more likely to be generated from renewable sources. We have not taken these variables into account in our calculations.
We have based the number of washing cycles on the UK average household washing volume (1,644kg per annum). Water costs are not included in the cost calculations, and neither are maintenance nor insurance costs.
Our numbers are based on an average of 280 wash-cycles per year (this is taken from household averages in the UK). We also assume in both cases (new and old machines) that a standard cycle is being run, using a cold water supply valve.
Our numbers assume that the fridge freezer runs 24/7, 365 days a year. We also assume that equal power is drawn during day-rate and night-rate hours (see above).
This is a free resource commissioned and funded by PureVolt Solar Ireland. The Eco Hub has been developed by our green energy experts in collaboration with the engineers, scientists, and data specialists from our sister company SquareFish .
On pages like this one, we try to share our passion and motivations for a greener Ireland by presenting clear, factual information without getting on a soapbox. We hope this page is useful for you. Please get in touch to let us know if we can make it better :)
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