ENACT – FAQ
Important questions and answers gathered in 5 main categories.
How much will a retrofit cost my business?
Project costs will vary on a case-by-case basis, depending on the measures to retrofit, the size of the building, the load, whether a grant is available and more. Ultimately the essential first step for any SME considering energy efficiency should be to undertake an energy audit, which will provide you with the information you need to make prudent investments in energy saving measures and renewable technologies. The audit will provide an estimate of project costs and an SEAI grant of €2,000 is available to SMEs through the Support Scheme for Energy Audits.
How to find upfront financial cost for retrofitting?
To start off with the retrofitting you need to secure part of the upfront cost and also there are financial supports available to apply with. Eg: SBCI loans, green loans, asset finance, etc. Also, Efficiency as a service contract allows customers to implement energy efficiency projects with no upfront cost. For more information refer SME guide to financing energy efficiency projects.
How can I calculate my payback period?
Payback periods typically range from 3-10 years, depending on the scope and depth of the retrofit. Once you have the figures like project cost and anticipated annual saving you can calculate your payback period and ROI. These metrics will be included in the energy audit, which is the first step of retrofit.
Click here for more information on energy audits.
How does retrofitting affect property value?
Improved BER ratings boost marketability and rental yields.
What supports/grant available for me?
You can use our SME guide to financing energy efficiency projects to find grants available for your own circumstance or you can see list of grants available from here (SME guide to financing energy efficiency projects).
What third party financial options available for retrofit projects?
Refer to the SME guide to financing energy efficiency projects to know about financial options available for commercial building retrofitting.
Are there any financial incentives, tax credit, or rebates available for retrofitting?
Yes, there are various grants, tax incentives, and financing options available to support energy efficient projects. Check SEAI website for more information. You can also refer SME guide to financing energy efficiency projects.
Can business claim tax relief for retrofitting?
Yes. The Accelerated Capital Allowance (ACA) lets businesses write off 100% of their investment in certain energy efficient products and equipment from their profits for tax purposes in the same year of purchase.
You can use ACA product search tool to find the approved triple E products that are eligible for ACA tax relief.
For more information ACA click here.
Does retrofitting reduce insurance costs?
Upgraded electrical/fire safety systems may lower premiums. Consult your insurer to discuss more.
Planning & Implementation
How long does a typical commercial retrofit project take from planning to completion?
Timeline typically varies based on project scope: Project time will mainly based on factors like, what retrofit measures you want to do, procurement process, permission process (if necessary), procurement time, and installation/implementing time. However, if you plan the project well in advanced you could be able to reduce the project time.
What factors affect the timeline of my retrofit project?
Planning permission requirements (through Irish local authorities)
- Building Energy Rating (BER) assessments
- Compliance with Part L of Irish Building Regulations
- EU Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD) requirements
- Procurement processes under Irish public procurement guidelines
- Seasonal considerations for Irish weather conditions
From where I need to start my retrofit journey?
Use our ENACT tool for step-by-step guide on your retrofit journey including all information you need with useful resources.
Also, SEAI has clearly showed steps to retrofit your commercial building.
Click here for more information
How do I select the right contractors for my project?
Better to select a contractor who has previous experience with similar commercial retrofit projects. You can find registered contractors with SEAI from here.
What does a commercial retrofit involves?
Upgrades like LED lightings, renewable energy systems, heat pumps, interior and exterior insulation, water conversation measures.
What permits are required for commercial building retrofitting?
Requirements are depend on the project scope and building location. Required permits may include:
- Planning permission for external modifications
- Fire safety certificates
- Disability access certificates
- BER certificates
How do I handle asbestos during retrofitting?
Hire licensed contractors for assessment/removal.
You can find the best practice guidance for handling asbestos in here.
Do I need a structural survey?
It depends on age of the building, recommended for older buildings to assess structural feasibility.
How to manage tenant disruptions?
Schedule work during off-hours and communicate timelines clearly
Can I retrofit a leased building?
Yes, with landlord consent. You need to review lease agreement.
Operation and maintenance
Will retrofit disrupt my business operations?
While some disruptions are inevitable, careful planning and phased implementation can minimize impact on daily operations.
How can I minimize the disruption to the current tenants during retrofit?
You can follow best practices and carefully plan the retrofit works. Following are some of measures that you can take to minimize the disruption to the current tenants.
Phased Implementation:
- Schedule major works during off-peak hours
- Coordinate with tenant business cycles
- Use weekend and evening work when appropriate
Communication Strategy:
- Provide detailed project timeline to all tenants
- Regular updates through multiple channels
- Clear complaint resolution process
Practical Measures:
- Temporary alternative spaces for displaced tenants
- Dust and noise control measures
- Maintained access to essential services
- Clear signage and wayfinding during works
Who will be responsible for the maintenance works of the building?
ESCO will take care of the building work done over the period of the contract.
How to maintain retrofitted systems?
Follow manufacturer guidelines and schedule annual inspections. Better to have a maintenance agreement with the contractor to avoid any disruptions in the systems.
How to monitor energy savings after retrofit?
You can use smart meters to monitor and SEAI’s monitoring tools.
Technical support
How can I get professional advice for my retrofit?
There are different means that you can use to get professional advice for commercial retrofitting.
- Utilise SEAI’s registered technical advisor list
- Connect with IGBC’s professional network
- Contact Local Enterprise Office sustainability advisors.
How do I find an independent BER assessor to my work?
You can utilise the SEAI registered non-domestic BER assessor list to find an assessor around your business area.
What are common insulation upgrades available?
Roof, wall and floor insulation to meet Par L of the Building Regulation.
What smart technologies can I use in my retrofitting?
Parallel to the retrofitting works you can install smart technologies like Building Management Systems (BMS), smart meters, occupancy sensors your building.
Are there grants for EV charging stations?
Yes, SEAI’s EV Charging Infrastructure Grant supports workplaces. For more information click here.
What tools and calculators available?
SEAI has setup few tools and calculators for lighting upgrades, steam trap calculators, EV saving, pipe insulation, etc.click here to check the list of tools and calculators.
Other
What are the similar retrofitting projects done in commercial building sector?
There are many case studies for successful retrofitting. See our business case studies available in ENACT toolkit.
What is energy performance contracts (EPCs)?
is a low-risk method of financing and delivery energy saving projects for businesses that lack of funds, manpower requirement and technical experience.
How does an EPC work?
is an agreement between clients and ESCO to perform design, build, operation and maintenance contract of energy efficiency improvement project.
What are the co- benefits in retrofits?
There are several co- benefits for retrofitted businesses other than saving from the energy bill. Improved indoor air quality, increase the cognitive ability and productivity of the employees, increase the property value, etc.
How do I make the business case for energy efficiency in my business?
Section 2 of An SME guide to financing energy efficiency projects sets out the approach to address making the business case for energy efficiency projects, helping businesses approach financial and leadership teams at their organisation about the proposed measures
Why invest in making my business more sustainable?
Here are some reasons why you want to invest to make your business more sustainable.
- To elevate your business brand
- To protect the environment
- To deliver the cost saving and increase your competitiveness
- To boost your reputation with staff, customers and stakeholders within your business
- To drive leadership within your sector
- To better meet criteria for business loans
- To future-proof your business
You can find more information tailored to retail business in Sustainable Irish Retail Handbook (SIRA) e- guide
This project has been funded by Sustainable Energy Authority Ireland under the SEAI National Energy Research, Development and Demonstration Funding Programme 2021 reference number RDD/00615.
