From 24th May 2026, Ireland’s Building Energy Rating (BER) system has changed. While the way your home’s energy performance is assessed remains the same, the rating scale has been simplified to make it easier for homeowners, buyers and tenants to understand.
If you’re planning a home energy upgrade, selling your property or simply want to know what these changes mean, here’s everything you need to know.
What is a BER?
A Building Energy Rating (BER) measures the energy efficiency of your home. Similar to the energy labels found on household appliances, a BER provides an indication of how much energy your property is likely to use for heating, hot water, ventilation and lighting.
Homes with a higher BER are generally:
- More comfortable to live in
- Cheaper to heat
- Better for the environment
- More attractive to potential buyers
What’s Changed?
Previously, Ireland used a 15-point BER scale, with ratings such as:
- A1
- A2
- A3
- B1
- B2
- B3
- C1
- C2
- C3
- D1
- D2
- E1
- E2
- F
- G
From 24th May 2026, this has been replaced by a much simpler scale:
- A0
- A
- B
- C
- D
- E
- F
- G
All sub-ratings such as B1, B2, C3 have been removed, reducing the number of categories from 15 to just 8. The new A0 rating recognises zero-emission buildings that achieve exceptional energy performance without using fossil fuels.
Why Has the BER Scale Changed?
The updated scale has been introduced as part of the EU Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD).
The aim is to:
- Make BER ratings easier to understand.
- Create consistency across EU member states.
- Help homeowners compare properties more easily.
- Support Ireland’s transition to more energy-efficient homes.
Will My Existing BER Still Be Valid?
Yes.
If your BER certificate was issued before 24th May 2026, it remains valid for 10 years from the date it was issued (unless major changes are made to your home that require a new assessment).
You do not need to get a new BER simply because the rating scale has changed. Existing certificates can still be used when selling or renting your home.
What’s New on the BER Certificate?
The updated BER certificate includes more useful information than before, including:
- Renewable energy contribution
- Greenhouse gas emissions
- Whole-life carbon information (Global Warming Potential)
- A QR code linking to your BER details and tailored upgrade advice
These additions make it easier for homeowners to understand not only their home’s current performance but also how they can improve it.
Does This Change Affect SEAI Grants?
No.
The BER scale update does not change the grants currently available through the SEAI. Homeowners can still access grants for measures such as:
- Attic insulation
- Wall insulation
- Heat pumps
- Solar PV
- Windows and doors
- Complete home energy upgrades
The new BER system simply changes how your home’s energy performance is displayed, not the support available to improve it.
How Can You Improve Your BER?
Improving your BER usually involves reducing heat loss and increasing the efficiency of your home’s heating system.
Common upgrades include:
- Improving attic, wall and floor insulation
- Replacing older windows and doors
- Installing a heat pump
- Adding solar PV panels
- Improving ventilation and airtightness
A professional Home Energy Assessment can identify which upgrades will have the biggest impact on your home’s comfort and running costs.
How House2Home Can Help
Understanding your BER is only the first step.
At House2Home, we help homeowners throughout every stage of their energy upgrade journey, from the initial Home Energy Assessment through to grant applications, design, installation and project completion.
Whether you’re looking to improve your home’s comfort, lower your energy bills or increase your property’s value, our team can guide you through the process and help you make the most of the supports available.
Ready to Improve Your Home’s Energy Rating?
Get started with House2Home’s free online cost calculator to receive an indicative cost for your home energy upgrade, or contact our team to learn more about the grants and supports available to you.