BER certificate and solar panels: what homeowners need to know
Here you’ll learn how solar panels can impact your home’s BER (Building Energy Rating), why your BER matters, and what homeowners in Ireland need to know when applying for grants or planning energy upgrades.
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What is a BER certificate?
A BER certificate (Building Energy Rating) is like a report card for your home’s energy performance. It shows how energy-efficient your property is on a scale from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient), based on factors like insulation, heating systems, and renewable energy sources.
In Ireland, a valid BER is required when selling or renting a home.
Why does your BER matter?
A better BER rating can mean:
- Lower energy bills
- Higher property value
- Better eligibility for grants
- Reduced carbon footprint
As energy efficiency becomes more important to buyers and renters, a good BER rating can make your home more attractive — and more futureproof.
How do solar panels affect your BER?
Installing solar PV panels can help improve your BER by reducing your reliance on electricity from the grid. This is especially true if your panels are meeting a large portion of your household’s daily electricity demand.
While solar panels are just one part of the BER calculation, they can make a noticeable difference — particularly when combined with other upgrades like insulation or efficient heating.
Is a BER required to get a solar grant?
Yes. To qualify for the SEAI Solar PV Grant, you must ensure that your home has a BER of C or higher after the solar panel installation. If your property doesn’t currently meet this, you may need to carry out additional energy upgrades as part of your grant application.
The BER assessment must be carried out by a SEAI-registered BER assessor, and the final result is submitted to SEAI when claiming the grant.
Improving your BER with solar PV
Here are a few common ways Irish homeowners improve their BER alongside installing solar:
- Adding solar PV panels to generate electricity
- Installing solar thermal panels to heat water
- Upgrading insulation in the attic, walls, or floors
- Replacing an old boiler or heating system with a heat pump
- Using energy-efficient windows and doors
Many of these upgrades can be done together under SEAI’s Home Energy Grants, potentially increasing your total grant value and making your home significantly more efficient.
How to get a BER assessment in Ireland
You can book a BER assessment through a registered BER assessor listed on the SEAI website. The assessor will visit your home, evaluate key aspects of the building, and issue a BER certificate valid for 10 years.
You’ll need this certificate both for grant applications and if you plan to sell or rent the property in future.
Get help with solar panel installation and grants
If you’re ready to install solar panels or want to check your eligibility for SEAI grants, it’s important to work with an installer familiar with Ireland’s building energy regulations. They can guide you through the BER process and ensure your system meets all the necessary criteria.
At Solarpanels.ie, we connect homeowners with trusted solar installers across Ireland. Simply fill out a short form to receive offers, compare prices, and get advice on boosting your BER while reducing your electricity bills.
