Ireland Overhauls BER System to A-G Scale with New A0 Category from May 24

Ireland's Buildings Energy Rating (BER) system will be overhauled from May 24, simplifying the current 15-point scale to a standard A-G scale, in line with new EU rules. A new A0 category will be introduced for zero-emissions, fossil fuel-free homes, aiming to promote higher energy efficiency standards.

Existing BER certificates, valid for 10 years, will remain unaffected until renewal. However, a small minority of homes in lower categories (D, E, F, G) might see their ratings change under the new system, especially those on category borders. Behind-the-scenes calculation changes, including factoring in grid decarbonisation, are expected to prevent more homes from being downgraded to G.

The Irish government has opted for the minimum 14% of homes to be categorised as G, to limit rating changes. The new system, which will apply across the EU, is intended to encourage financial institutions to fund renovations and support retrofitting. Financial institutions and the property sector have reacted positively, and existing fixed-rate «green» mortgages linked to B3 or better ratings will not be affected.

The A0 category will highlight homes with emissions below 5kg CO2 per kilowatt-hour and no fossil fuels, excluding A-rated homes with fossil fuel-burning stoves. Housing Minister James Browne stated the A0 rating will drive a «much higher» standard of energy efficiency. The new system will also slightly ease qualification for Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland «One Stop Shop» retrofitting grants by adjusting the post-works BER requirement from B2 to B. New BER certificates will include additional information on global warming potential and renewable energy production.