Understanding your upgrade options
If you’re thinking about improving your home’s energy efficiency, you’ll usually come across two routes:
Both
are valid options, but they suit different homes and different goals.
The right choice depends on the scale of upgrades you’re considering and
how much support you want throughout the process.
The
SEAI
One Stop Shop is designed for homeowners who want to carry out a
full home energy upgrade, often involving multiple measures completed
together.
Through a registered
One Stop Shop provider, the entire
process is managed for you — from assessment and design through to
installation and grant administration.
A
One Stop Shop upgrade
typically starts with a
Home Energy Assessment, which determines whether
your home is suitable and what combination of upgrades makes sense.
What upgrades are covered under the One Stop Shop?
The
One Stop Shop pathway supports a whole-home approach and can include a combination of upgrades such as:
- Insulation (attic, walls, floors)
- Heating system upgrades, including heat pumps
- Windows and doors
- Ventilation systems
- Solar PV
When completed as part of a One Stop Shop project, SEAI grants of up to €36,900 may be available, depending on the upgrades recommended for your home.
Grants are processed and deducted upfront, meaning you only pay the net cost.
Individual grants are designed for homeowners who want to complete one specific upgrade at a time, rather than a full retrofit.
Examples
include installing
attic insulation, upgrading heating controls, or
adding
Solar PV. Each measure has its own eligibility criteria and grant
amount, and applications are made separately for each upgrade.
This route can suit homeowners who:
- Are upgrading in stages
- Only want a single measure
- Are not planning a full retrofit at this time
Key differences at a glance
While both options are supported by SEAI, the experience is very different.
SEAI One Stop Shop:- Designed for multiple upgrades
- Managed process from start to finish
- Grants deducted upfront
- One coordinated plan
- Requires a Home Energy Assessment
Individual Grants:- Suitable for single upgrades
- Homeowner manages each step
- Separate applications per measure
- Works well for phased upgrades
Neither option is “better” — the right choice depends on your home and your plans.Which option is right for your home?
If you’re unsure which route suits you, this is where a
Home Energy Assessment plays a key role.
The assessment looks at how your home performs today and helps determine:
- Whether a One Stop Shop upgrade is suitable
- Which individual upgrades may deliver the most benefit
- The correct sequence if upgrading in stages
Instead of guessing, you receive clear, professional guidance based on your home.
Can you switch between options?
Yes, in some cases.
Many homeowners start with a
Home Energy Assessment, review their options, and then decide whether to:
- Proceed with a One Stop Shop retrofit
- Carry out individual upgrades first
- Plan a phased approach over time
Having a clear assessment upfront gives you flexibility without locking you into a decision.
Why starting with an assessment matters
The most common mistakes in
home energy upgrades come from poor sequencing or incomplete planning.
A
Home Energy Assessment helps:
- Avoid incompatible upgrades
- Prevent missed grant opportunities
- Ensure upgrades work together effectively
It replaces uncertainty with clarity and allows you to move forward at your own pace.
Take your first step
Choosing between the SEAI
One Stop Shop and individual grants doesn’t have to be confusing.
A
Home Energy Assessment gives you a clear understanding of your home, your options, and what makes sense before you commit to any upgrades.
You can book your
Home Energy Assessment online in just a few minutes, with an additional online booking discount available. If you’d prefer to speak with someone first, our team is available to guide you.
Take your first step today and plan your home energy upgrade with clarity and confidence.