In recent years, uncertainty around energy supply, rising prices, and the pressing issue of climate change have meant that Irish businesses have grown increasingly concerned about their energy use. Opportunities to make changes which can save money and support growth are more important than ever before for businesses to survive and thrive.
A support scheme for energy audits
The Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) is encouraging Irish SMEs to take control of their energy use with the launch of the new Support Scheme for Energy Audits (SSEA).
The scheme provides eligible businesses with a €2,000 voucher to cover the cost of an energy audit. An energy audit identifies tailored energy saving opportunities that can save businesses up to 30 percent on their energy bills and help to reduce their climate impact. The audit also assesses whether renewable energy technologies are a viable option for their business.
Audits are delivered by SEAI Registered Energy Auditors, who adhere to a specified audit template that has been developed for the scheme. Clients can therefore be confident that they are receiving a high-quality audit from a well-qualified and experienced auditor. Find out more about the scheme, and apply, here: https://www.seai.ie/sme/energyaudits
Eligibility
The scheme is open to SMEs that spend at least €10,000 per year on energy, employ fewer than 250 employees and have either a turnover of less than €50 million or a balance sheet of less than €43 million. The company must be registered and located in Ireland and be able to provide a valid Companies Registration Office (CRO) number and proof of tax compliance.
Application
Application to the SSEA is quick and easy, and approval is given immediately to eligible companies. Clients can apply through the website and will receive a voucher via email.
Process
Once clients have applied and been awarded a voucher, the site visit can be organised with the auditor. Clients will receive an audit report from the auditor and once satisfied with the report, the auditor can request payment from SEAI.
Participating auditors
Auditors that wish to participate must be on the SEAI’s Register of Energy Auditors. This requires auditors to meet the following criteria:
- Have a technical qualification, minimum level 7 Ordinary Bachelor’s Degree, in a relevant discipline such as engineering, architecture, or building services
- Have at least 7 years relevant professional work experience since achieving the above qualification
In addition, auditors must be awarded one of the following titles:
- Energy Institute Chartered Energy Engineer
- Energy Institute Chartered Energy Manager
- Association of Energy Engineers Certified Energy Manager
- Association of Energy Engineers Certified Energy Auditor
- Practising Non-Domestic BER Assessor registered with SEAI
Visit our website for more information and how to apply: https://www.seai.ie/register-with-seai/auditor/
Other SEAI business supports
SEAI works to support businesses in their efforts to better understand and manage their energy use. This is achieved through educational resources including the Energy Academy and Energy Management Workshops, and through grants and financial supports for energy saving and renewable technologies. A full list of supports is available on the business pages of SEAI’s website:
https://www.seai.ie/business-and-public-sector/small-and-medium-business/supports/financial-supports/