Behind The Walls

In this episode, Pete and Ferg are back with a major update on Ireland's home energy retrofit industry - and there's plenty of good news for homeowners!With winter approaching and energy costs continuing to put pressure on households, the lads break down the latest SEAI grant changes, including the new €2,000 boiler scrappage support, heat pump grants of up to €14,500, and the return of the €600 solar battery grant.Pete shares his firsthand experience of living with solar panels, battery storage and a heat pump, explaining how he's monitoring electricity usage, reducing bills and making the most of his system. Fergal breaks down the updated grants, who may qualify, and why proper design and installation are essential to getting the best results.They also explore the benefits of the One Stop Shop approach versus individual grants, new solar supports under the Warmer Homes scheme, and why a Home Energy Assessment should be the first step for anyone considering a retrofit.From rising fossil fuel prices and common heat pump misconceptions to the importance of insulation and choosing the right contractors, Pete and Ferg explain what homeowners need to know before making the investment.Whether you're looking to install a heat pump, invest in solar panels or simply make your home warmer and cheaper to run, this episode is packed with practical advice to help you take the next step.Timecodes:00:00 – Welcome back: Pete and Ferg's latest retrofit and grants update00:53 – Winter is approaching: heating systems and the latest grant changes01:19 – New €2,000 boiler scrappage support explained01:47 – Heat pump grants of up to €14,500: what's included?02:34 – Additional €2,000 support for radiators and underfloor heating03:14 – The €6,500 heat pump grant and €4,000 renewable heat bonus04:16 – What will a heat pump installation actually cost homeowners?05:20 – Rising electricity and fossil fuel prices: what does the future hold?06:03 – Heat pumps versus traditional heating: which is better for futureproofing?07:20 – Why the latest grant increases were introduced immediately08:15 – Already applied for a grant? Could you qualify for the increased supports?09:33 – Pete's first year with a heat pump and solar panels10:09 – Monitoring energy consumption and understanding electricity bills11:26 – Heat pump horror stories: why design and installation matter12:39 – Why insulation improves the efficiency of every heating system13:00 – The return of the €600 solar battery grant14:07 – Solar PV grants: why government policy has changed15:37 – Why heat pumps and solar panels work well together16:20 – Battery storage: Pete explains why it's a game changer17:32 – Bigger solar systems and the importance of storing electricity18:19 – Export tariffs: selling electricity back to the grid19:00 – How solar panel technology has improved over the years20:26 – Pete's experience of reducing his summer electricity bills21:51 – Could payments for exporting solar energy disappear in the future?23:19 – Warmer Homes scheme: new solar PV and battery supports24:26 – Expanded eligibility for solar grants on newer homes25:40 – Solar technology advancements: comparing 2018 panels with today's systems27:07 – One Stop Shop versus individual grants: which route should homeowners choose?28:06 – The benefits of upfront grant deductions and project management30:27 – Why coordinating contractors and retrofit paperwork can be difficult32:20 – Planning a whole-home retrofit and avoiding unexpected costs34:47 – Should you retrofit now or wait for bigger grants?36:13 – How energy efficiency and BER ratings affect property value37:10 – Why insulation should come before heat pumps and solar panels37:27 – Home Energy Upgrade loans and financing your retrofit38:09 – Getting started: understanding your home and your budget38:35 – Home Energy Assessments: why they're the ideal first step39:17 – Assessment grants, costs and what homeowners receive40:17 – Understanding eligibility and planning your home energy upgrades41:31 – Choosing between a full retrofit and a phased approach42:07 – Attic insulation: why professional installation matters43:12 – The hidden details of a properly completed attic upgrade45:31 – Getting quotes and choosing the right contractor45:55 – The golden rule: never start work before grant approval46:46 – Heat pump myths and why satisfied homeowners rarely speak up47:03 – How to operate a heat pump efficiently: low, slow and steady48:37 – Final thoughts, upcoming guests and what's next for Behind the Walls

In this episode, Pete and Ferg sit down without a guest for a summer recap — and there's plenty to cover. From the SEAI's major grant uplifts at the start of the year to the shock of war in the Middle East sending oil and fuel prices through the roof, the lads break down what it all means for Irish homeowners. They make the case for why summer is actually the perfect time to start planning your home energy upgrade — before the autumn rush hits and contractors become impossible to reach.Pete shares his own firsthand experience fitting solar panels and a heat pump, going full app-watcher mode tracking energy generation and savings. Fergal explains the home energy assessment process from start to finish, busts common myths around grants and timing, and outlines why getting your retrofit paperwork in order now — not in October — is the smartest move you can make.They also touch on the Warmer Homes scheme, grants for approved housing bodies, the growing case for EVs, the importance of switching energy providers annually, and what the future might hold — from renovation passports to a potential heat pump electricity rate.Whether you're just starting out or already mid-retrofit, this is a straight-talking, no-nonsense update on everything happening in the Irish home energy space right now.Timecodes00:00 – Welcome & what to expect: Pete and Ferg's summer recap episode00:37 – Why summer is the worst time to forget about your heating system01:18 – Get your home energy assessment done now — don't wait until September02:12 – SEAI grant uplifts: what changed and how homeowners have responded03:35 – Heat pump grants explained: from €6,500 up to €12,500 — what's included04:44 – Individual grant route vs. one stop shop: which is right for you?05:23 – The war in the Middle East and the Strait of Hormuz: what happened to Irish energy prices06:41 – How vulnerable are we to fossil fuel supply shocks? The case for futureproofing07:05 – EV sales spike and the push away from fossil fuels08:12 – Who felt the pinch most? Oil, diesel, and the timing of the crisis09:56 – Heat pumps run on electricity — but electricity prices went up too10:43 – Solar PV: the "cherry on top" measure and why timing matters12:26 – Pete's solar panel journey: 20 panels, 4 batteries, and going all in14:24 – Off-grid during the day: how batteries and cheap night rates work together15:50 – Selling back to the grid and optimising your energy plan17:37 – Right-sizing your solar system: don't go bigger than your usage needs19:23 – Tracking results over a full year: why summer figures alone don't tell the whole story20:55 – Always switch energy provider when your contract is up21:46 – Grant updates for approved housing bodies: up to 100% funding available23:11 – The Warmer Homes scheme, energy poverty grants, and community energy coordinators24:42 – Winter is coming: why human nature works against homeowners in summer26:27 – What is a home energy assessment? A plain-English breakdown28:07 – What the assessment costs, what you get, and why it's worth every cent29:12 – Pete's own assessment experience and how it shaped his retrofit decisions31:15 – Common mistakes to avoid: don't do any work before your letter of offer arrives32:53 – The biggest mistake of all: doing nothing and waiting too long34:19 – Remember last winter? Now is the time to act on it35:19 – The "carrot and stick" — grants won't last forever, and penalties may follow35:57 – Book contractors now: summer is the only time they'll answer the phone37:07 – Is it possible to be fully crisis-proof? Fergal's experience during the energy shock38:33 – Every step towards self-sufficiency counts — even the small ones39:16 – Attic insulation: the quickest win with the fastest payback40:05 – How retrofit affects property value: €50k difference on the same road41:23 – Location, location, BER rating: how buyers are factoring in energy efficiency42:31 – Quality of life with a retrofitted home — hard to put into words, easy to feel42:47 – What's coming next: renovation passports and a potential heat pump electricity rate45:02 – A new entity entering Ireland that could improve heat pump efficiency45:38 – Wrap-up and final thoughts

In this episode of Behind the Walls, hosts Pete and Ferg are joined by Caitriona O'Connor, Show Director of the  PTSB Ideal Home Show. With over 30 years of history behind the event, Caitriona shares insights into how Irish homeowners’ priorities have evolved—from basic upgrades to full-scale energy-efficient retrofits.The conversation dives into everything from the rise of heat pumps, solar panels, and insulation (“fabric first”) to common (and costly) mistakes homeowners make when upgrading their homes. They also explore current trends like outdoor living spaces, modular homes, smart technology, and the growing importance of BER ratings.If you're planning a renovation, considering a retrofit, or just looking for inspiration, this episode is packed with practical advice, expert insights, and tips on how to make the most of the Ideal Home Show.00:00 – Intro & Guest WelcomeIntroduction to the episode and guest Caitriona O'Connor, Show Director of the Ideal Home Show.00:30 – History of the Ideal Home ShowOverview of the show’s 30+ year legacy and Katrina’s 18 years managing it.01:06 – How Home Trends Have ChangedShift in homeowner priorities—from aesthetics to energy efficiency and retrofits.01:42 – Post-Covid Home UpgradesRise in demand for insulation, attic conversions, and energy-saving improvements.02:21 – Variety of Exhibitors & What to ExpectBreakdown of the wide range of construction and home improvement sectors at the show.03:09 – What’s Trending Right NowOutdoor living, saunas, garden rooms, and wellness-focused home features.03:33 – Expert Talks & SpeakersOverview of expert panels, including retrofit specialists, architects, and engineers.04:50 – “Fabric First” ExplainedWhy insulation and airtightness should come before heating systems or solar.05:37 – Why Face-to-Face Advice MattersImportance of asking questions and getting expert guidance in person.06:41 – Who Should Attend the Show?Why the event suits everyone—from casual shoppers to serious renovators.07:06 – What’s at the Show (Theatres & Features)Home Advice Theatre, Interiors Theatre, Chef’s Stage, and “Ask an Expert” hub.08:20 – Simplifying Complex TopicsBreaking down industry jargon and avoiding confusion for homeowners.09:28 – Costly Mistakes to AvoidReal-life example of poor planning leading to wasted money on solar panels.10:12 – The “Cherry on Top” ConceptWhy solar PV should come after proper insulation and energy upgrades.11:39 – Importance of Trusted AdviceAvoiding misinformation and relying on qualified experts.12:15 – Key Speakers & TopicsFeaturing architects, lenders, retrofit experts, and grant advisors.13:22 – Event Layout & What to ExpectBreakdown of exhibition areas and where to find advice and talks.14:32 – Why the Show Appeals to EveryoneBlending construction, interiors, and lifestyle elements.15:05 – Planning Your VisitHow to approach the show strategically for maximum benefit.16:17 – Bringing Plans & Doing ResearchWhy preparation helps you get the most from expert advice.17:12 – Time Needed at the ShowVisitors typically spend 4–5 hours exploring.17:36 – Why People Are Renovating Instead of MovingHousing crisis impact and rise in home upgrades.18:19 – Energy Costs & Future-Proofing HomesWhy energy efficiency is becoming a top priority.19:16 – Grants & Financial IncentivesImportance of using available grants and funding options.20:04 – BER Ratings & Property ValueHow energy ratings now influence buying decisions.21:03 – Decision-Making for HomeownersBalancing cost, comfort, and long-term investment.21:57 – Smart Homes & Technology TrendsGrowth in automation, security, and energy management systems.22:55 – Outdoor Living BoomGarden rooms, outdoor kitchens, and wellness spaces.24:40 – Insulation & Ventilation ImportanceAvoiding common issues like condensation and damp.27:16 – Ventilation Deep DiveWhy it’s often overlooked but critical for healthy homes.28:55 – Current Top Trends RecapEnergy upgrades, kitchens, bathrooms, and smart homes.30:05 – Lessons from Covid LivingHow lockdown changed how we use and value our homes.31:14 – Decluttering & Maximizing SpaceImportance of efficient layouts and storage solutions.32:16 – Minimalism & Wellness in DesignShift toward simpler, calmer home environments.33:18 – Final Advice for VisitorsAsk questions, attend talks, and engage with experts.34:05 – Preparing for the ShowBring plans, photos, and documents for better advice.35:49 – Event Details & ScheduleDates, times, and tips for attending.38:30 – Best Time to Visit & Planning ToolsUsing the website and product finder to plan your day.39:05 – Building Relationships with ExpertsWhy meeting professionals in person matters.41:23 – Tickets & Final InfoHow to register, get tickets, and plan your visit.42:01 – OutroFinal thoughts and reminder to check out previous episodes.

DescriptionFollowing on from their viral episode on the new SEAI grant uplifts, Pete and Retrofit Ferg go deep on the grant that got the biggest boost — the heat pump grant, now worth up to €12,500. To do it justice, they brought in the right person: April McHale of Mitsubishi Electric, with over 25 years of experience in the heating industry.This episode is a masterclass in everything heat pumps. April and the lads cover how heat pumps actually work, why fabric-first is the right approach (for any heating system), and what the installation process really looks like from start to finish. They bust the most common myths — noise, running costs, power cuts — and give homeowners a clear, step-by-step roadmap for applying for the grant, getting a technical assessment, and getting the work done correctly.There's also a real-life cautionary tale about €18,000 worth of grants lost due to bad advice, a discussion of the new high-temperature heat pump pilot using R290 refrigerant, and an honest, first-hand account of a heat pump installed in a stone cottage from the 1800s that proves the technology works in even the most unlikely homes. If you're thinking about a heat pump — or know someone whose boiler is on its last legs — this is required listening.Timecodes00:00 – Welcome & Introduction Pete and Ferg introduce the episode as a follow-up to their viral SEAI grants episode. This one goes deep on heat pumps, with special guest April McHale of Mitsubishi Electric.01:10 – Meet April McHale April's background — 25+ years in the heating industry, starting with underfloor heating in 1999, moving through geothermal and air-to-water heat pumps, solar, and retrofit. Now with Mitsubishi Electric.03:04 – New Builds vs Retrofit: Why Heat Pumps Work So Well New builds are built to airtight standards and are a natural fit for heat pumps. The challenge — and the big opportunity — is retrofitting heat pumps into existing homes.04:49 – Fabric First: Why Your Home Needs to Be Ready You can install a heat pump in any home, but the better insulated it is, the lower the running temperature and the greater the efficiency. Attic insulation, wall insulation, good windows — these all matter regardless of what heating system you're using.06:13 – The Triple Win of Heat Pumps One unit of electricity generates 3–4 units of heat. Zero combustion, no fumes, better air quality. Lower running costs, dramatically better comfort levels, and better for the environment. Pete's "triple win" explained.07:35 – Addressing the Negativity Around Heat Pumps Why do heat pumps get such a bad press? April explains the reason: they're always pushed to run at low temperatures for efficiency, and when they're not designed or installed properly, problems follow. The solution: use SEAI-registered contractors.07:52 – The New Heat Pump Grant: €12,500 Explained Breakdown of the new grant: €6,500 base + €4,000 renewable heat bonus + €2,000 for central heating upgrades (radiators or underfloor heating). Now covers 60–65% of overall costs in most cases.09:17 – Heat Pump vs Oil Boiler: The Real Comparison Yes, a boiler swap costs less upfront. But you're locking in fossil fuels for another 15–20 years. Carbon taxes are going one way. The grants are there now — this is the time to make the switch.11:59 – What a Heat Pump Installation Actually Involves Outdoor unit, new cylinder, updated radiators if needed. A typical retrofit swap-out takes about two days. April walks through exactly what to expect and what gets disrupted.13:27 – Comfort Levels: The Thing No One Talks About Enough Lower flow temperatures, consistent background heat, no blast-and-freeze cycle. The difference in comfort when moving from oil/gas to a heat pump is something homeowners consistently rave about.16:36 – Air Quality & Health Benefits No combustion, no flue, no fumes. A heat pump means cleaner air inside your home. A benefit that's often overlooked.17:35 – Changing Your Habits with a Heat Pump Leaving oil and gas behind means leaving behind the Irish habit of rationing heat. With a heat pump, you set your temperature and leave it — consistent, low, ambient heat all the time. Don't turn it off when you go out.20:07 – Just Leave It Alone The single most important piece of advice for heat pump owners. Set it, leave it. No need to interfere. The system manages itself.22:19 – Servicing & Maintenance Heat pumps should be serviced every year — it's a condition of warranty in most cases. Not expensive, not complicated. Don't wait for something to go wrong.23:57 – Heat Pump Reliability April and Ferg's experience: no callbacks, no breakdowns. When sized and installed correctly, heat pumps just quietly and consistently do their job.25:05 – How to Apply for the Grant: Step by Step Go online to the SEAI portal, enter your MPRN, get instant approval. Then get your energy assessment, choose a registered installer, get the work done, submit paperwork, receive payment. Eight months to complete the work under the individual grant.26:13 – Technical Assessment & Heat Loss Indicator (HLI) Explained What is the heat loss indicator? Why does it matter for heat pump grants? How does a BER rating differ from a HLI? And why solar PV can give you a great BER but still leave you with a poor HLI.29:07 – Getting a Home Energy Assessment: The Smart Starting Point Why getting a full home energy assessment (including technical assessment) through a One-Stop Shop gives you all the information you need in one go — the BER advisory report, roadmap, and technical assessment — for a combined grant of €350.33:08 – Common Urban Myths: Noise Does a heat pump make a constant loud noise? Not if it's installed correctly. The outdoor fan is quiet, the thermal insulation in a properly upgraded home has acoustic benefits, and placement matters. Ferg's gas boiler used to wake him up at 6am. His heat pump doesn't.36:05 – The Danger of Bad Advice: A €18,000 Cautionary Tale A homeowner got new windows and a heat pump installed before applying for grants — on a builder's advice. Result: €18,000 in grants lost. There are no retrospective SEAI grants. Always get approval first.39:33 – How to Qualify Your Information Source Don't rely on Facebook, social media "experts," or even mainstream media commentators. Go to the SEAI website. Speak to registered contractors. Get it in writing. And make sure you get approval before a single bit of work is done.41:41 – Grant Timeline & Flexibility Eight months to complete work under individual grants; 12 months for One-Stop Shop. Once you're in the system and communicating with SEAI, they will work with you. The key is getting approval first.42:03 – The Installation Process in Detail Heat loss calculations room by room, radiator sizing, cylinder sizing, pipework assessment, controls and zoning. It's all done by the installer — the homeowner doesn't need to worry about any of it.44:16 – Radiators: Steel vs Aluminium, and Practical Upgrades Steel radiators are cheaper, more widely available, and perfectly suitable for heat pump systems. Going from single to double panel is often all that's needed to get the right output — no need for complete replacements.

In this episode of Behind the Walls, Roy, Ferg (aka The Retrofit Guy), and special guest Stephen from the SEAI break down the latest Irish home energy grant changes and what they actually mean for homeowners.With recent grant increases and new measures announced, the lads cut through the noise and misinformation to explain:What grants have increasedWho is eligible (and who isn’t)The truth about windows & doors grantsHow to upgrade your home step by step, without wasting moneyWhy insulation still comes before shiny upgradesHow to create a long-term retrofit pathway that leads to heat pumps and lower billsThis is a must-listen for homeowners, first-time buyers, and anyone thinking about energy upgrades in 2025 and beyond.Timecodes00:00 – Welcome & introduction 00:45 – Grant increases announced: what’s changed and why it matters 02:10 – Heat pump grants explained (€12.5k breakdown) 03:45 – One Stop Shop vs individual grants 04:28 – New high-temperature heat pump pilot (boiler-style heat pumps) 06:45 – Who high-temp heat pumps are best suited for 07:38 – Attic & cavity wall insulation grant increases 09:10 – How to apply for individual grants (step-by-step) 10:12 – Why insulation is still the best first upgrade 12:00 – Comfort vs cost: why insulation changes everything 14:50 – Registered contractors vs “cheap jobs” explained 18:25 – Windows & doors grants: what everyone is asking 19:03 – Windows & doors now available as standalone grants 20:16 – Eligibility rules: attic & walls must be “good” or “very good” 21:13 – BER advisory reports explained simply 22:00 – Why windows aren’t a free-for-all 24:17 – Why a home energy assessment is essential 26:04 – Creating a realistic retrofit pathway over time 27:27 – First-time buyer enhanced insulation grants 28:23 – Why One Stop Shops still matter 29:16 – Airtightness, ventilation & hidden upgrades 30:06 – Project management realities homeowners underestimate 32:24 – Breaking down the windows & doors pathway clearly 34:08 – External wall insulation vs internal dry lining 36:35 – Easy wins: attic + cavity wall first 38:12 – Heat pumps myths vs reality 39:36 – Why solar PV should be the “cherry on top” 41:34 – Can you get a second wall insulation grant? 43:03 – Extra supports for energy-poor households 44:00 – Final thoughts: spending money in the right order

In this Behind the Walls season finale, Pete and Fergal are joined by special guest Mike Finnerty to wrap up an incredible year of homeowner education, retrofit insights, and myth-busting. Together, they break down what homeowners still need to know, why government clarity matters more than ever, and how Season 2 will raise the bar even higher.The trio dive into the big questions facing the retrofit journey: • Will grants change next year? • Are government ministers truly committed? • What information do homeowners need now to make confident decisions?00:00 – 00:31:04 Opening & Why the Podcast Exists Pete and Fergal reflect on their mission to break down retrofit knowledge for everyday homeowners — joined today by guest Mike Finnerty.31:04 – 32:24 Keeping It Simple: Breaking Down Technical Jargon How the team translates expert insights into clearer, “caveman-style” explanations.32:24 – 33:48 Why a Government Minister Needs to Join Season Two Mike asks the big questions: Why is ministerial clarity essential, and what should they be pressed on?33:48 – 36:18 The One Question Homeowners Need Answered Are the government genuinely committed to the retrofit journey — and will they fund it long-term?36:18 – 37:43 Climate Reality & Ireland’s Environmental Challenges The team looks beyond grants to water quality, climate shifts, and long-term sustainability.37:43 – 38:22 Season Break Banter Will the lads miss each other? A Starsky & Hutch moment (and Christmas jokes).38:22 – 39:16 Upcoming One-Stop-Shop Live Event Mike and Fergal announce the next event: Silver Springs Clayton Hotel, Cork — December 4th.39:16 – 40:03 Homeowners Are Asking Smarter Questions Why the public is more informed than ever — and why the “sticky” questions are the best ones.40:03 – 41:11 Feedback & Season Two Improvements Pete, Fergal, and Mike chat about balance, structure, and what they’ll tweak in the next season.41:11 – 42:03 Architects, Criticism at Home & Dream Guests A funny exchange about architects, Mike’s wife, and why Dermot Bannon is a must-have guest.42:03 – 43:16 The Origin Story How the idea for the podcast was born in a Galway bar — and why none of them expected it to take off like this.43:16 – 43:50 Final Thoughts & Looking to 2025 Thanking listeners, encouraging questions, and promising an even stronger season ahead.43:50 – End Closing Moments Laughs, bloopers, and the official sign-off.

In this episode, we sit down with Eoin McGann from EMG Energy Consultants to break down everything you need to know about home energy assessments. Whether you're considering a retrofit, thinking about installing a heat pump, or just want to understand where your home stands energy-wise, this is the episode for you.Eoin walks us through the entire process from start to finish, explaining what assessors actually look at when they visit your home, how the roadmap system works, and why getting your assessment done is the essential first step on your retrofit journey. We also discuss the Heat Loss Indicator (HLI), why it matters for heat pump eligibility, and how the industry has evolved over the years.Pete shares his own experience having Eoin assess his 20-year-old home, and we explore why every homeowner in Ireland should seriously consider getting their home energy assessment done while the grants are still available.

Welcome to Episode 8 of Behind The Walls with Pete and Ferg!In this episode, we're joined by the one and only Eric Donovan - former European boxing champion, psychotherapist, counselor, father, husband, and homeowner currently completing his retrofit journey.Eric shares his incredible experience transforming an old, energy-inefficient house (F/G BER rating) into a modern, comfortable forever home for his family. From navigating the vacant homes grant to achieving a A+ BER rating, Eric gives an honest account of the entire process.Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction & Welcome Eric Donovan01:12 - Eric's journey to homeownership at 4002:08 - The decision to retrofit vs. buy and move in immediately03:52 - Meeting on Hell Week & the bromance begins05:42 - The Vacant Homes Grant game changer07:42 - Combining grants for maximum benefit09:06 - Getting contractors and starting the work10:14 - External vs. internal wall insulation decision11:24 - The one-stop shop approach with Via Vibed13:14 - Air-to-water heat pumps explained16:14 - Adding solar panels to the system17:10 - The investment and long-term benefits19:13 - How stressful was the process?20:09 - Eric's message about retrofitting22:01 - League of Ireland passion (Drogheda United!)24:00 - Life after boxing & mental health work26:01 - The importance of asking for help28:36 - Looking forward to Christmas in the new home31:09 - Final advice for anyone considering retrofit34:44 - Shout outs & where to find Eric36:40 - The Hell Week story & wrap upWhat we cover:✅ Combining the Vacant Homes Grant with SEAI grants for maximum benefit✅ Why external wall insulation was the right choice for Eric's home✅ The game-changing benefits of air-to-water heat pumps✅ Solar panels and creating a fully energy-efficient home✅ Working with Via Vibed and project management throughout the retrofit✅ The reality of moving from cramped living to a spacious family home✅ Eric's advice for anyone considering a retrofitKey Takeaways:External wall insulation provides better coverage and gives your home a complete faceliftAir-to-water heat pumps deliver consistent temperature and 24/7 hot waterIt's never too early to ask questions about retrofitting your homeThe right time to retrofit is when it suits your lifestyle - don't wait for the "perfect moment"Eric also discusses his work as a psychotherapist at First Ones Therapy and Wellness in Naas, his new role as head coach at Athy Boxing Club, and his passion for League of Ireland football (come on the Drogs!).Thanks to Eric for being so open about his retrofit experience - moving into your forever home just before your 11th anniversary with Laura!Don't forget to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and hit the notification bell for more Behind The Walls content!#Retrofit #HomeRenovation #EnergyEfficiency #BERRating #HeatPump #VacantHomesGrant #SEAIGrants #EricDonovan #BehindTheWalls #IrishConstruction #SustainableLiving #ExternalWallInsulation #SolarPanels

In this episode of Behind the Walls, Pete and Ferg sit down with Roisin Mulligan and Orla Ní Cholmáin to discuss the Home Energy Upgrade Loan scheme. They break down how homeowners and landlords can access low-cost financing for retrofits, tackle energy efficiency upgrades, and improve comfort in their homes.From eligibility to application steps, loan details, and real-life case studies, this episode covers everything you need to know about making your home warmer, more energy-efficient, and more affordable to maintain.

In this episode of Behind the Walls Podcast, Pete and Fergal sit down with Stuart Hobbs, Director of SSE Airtricity Energy Services and Solutions, to talk about Ireland’s energy future. From solar and wind power to home retrofits, grants, and the truth about heat pumps, this episode digs into how Irish homeowners can take control of their energy use and become part of the transition to a net-zero future.Stuart shares insights into the evolving energy industry, how consumer awareness is changing, and why the phrase “location, location, energy” might soon replace the old saying about property value. The lads also bust a few myths about home upgrades, grants, and what it really takes to make your home greener and more efficient.Whether you’re considering solar panels, retrofitting, or just curious about how energy systems are evolving in Ireland, this episode is packed with useful information and light-hearted chat.🎙️ Hosted by Pete & Fergal📺 Subscribe for more real conversations about energy, retrofitting, and sustainable building in Ireland.💬 Like, comment, and share your thoughts below!#BehindTheWallsPodcast #EnergyIreland #SolarPV #HeatPumps #SSEAirtricity #Retrofit #HomeEnergyUpgrade #Sustainability #IrishHomes #RenewableEnergy