James Browne TD, the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, has today confirmed €140 million in funding for local authorities to support the retrofitting of approximately 3,500 social homes.

This allocation represents a €50 million increase compared to the amount utilised by local authorities in 2025.

The investment is part of a broader €260 million Exchequer package dedicated to various Departmental supports for local authority home improvement initiatives. In addition to the funding boost, the Minister announced that the average grant available per property within a local authority's yearly programme will rise from €34,000 to €38,000.

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Since the inception of the Energy Efficiency Retrofit Programme (EERP), over 11,000 homes have undergone deep retrofitting. This latest funding injection aims to complete an additional 3,500 social home upgrades by the conclusion of 2026.

Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, James Browne TD emphasised: "The Energy Efficiency Retrofit Programme has made a huge impact both in terms of the quality of our housing stock and in addressing the challenges of climate change. Over 11,000 homes have been deep retrofitted since the scheme was first introduced and this increase in funding would see an additional 3,500 social homes retrofitted by the end of 2026.

"We are in the middle of a housing crisis and, as Minister, I will do everything in my power to deliver the homes we need at scale, but we must also make sure that our existing housing stock is brought up to a very high standard. These homes will be safer, cleaner, and healthier for those living in them and better for our environment. Furthermore, the funding will be allocated in such a way that we can make sure the money is spent, the work is carried out, and the results are delivered."