The New BER Scale in Ireland (From May 2026)
The New BER Scale
From 24 May 2026, Ireland’s Building Energy Rating (BER) system is getting a significant update. Designed to align with the EU’s Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD), the new scale simplifies how energy performance is communicated making it clearer for homeowners, buyers, and tenants alike.
For KORE Retrofit, this change is more than just a new label it’s an opportunity to better communicate performance, value, and the pathway to an energy-efficient home.
What is Changing?
The BER scale is being simplified from 15 categories down to 8, removing sub-ratings like B1, B2, and B3.
The new BER Scale:
A0
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
This new streamlined approach shows an overview of how a home performs and where it needs improvement.
Introducing A0: The New Benchmark
A major addition is the A0 Rating - The Highest Possible BER.
This category is reserved for:
Homes with exceptional energy performance
Properties that do not rely on fossil fuels
Buildings with high levels of renewable energy integration
Why This Matters for Homeowners
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No more confusion between B1 vs B2 vs B3 homeowners can now quickly understand where their home stands.
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Ireland’s ratings will now align with EU standards, making property performance more comparable across countries.
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With added Global Warming Potential (GWP) metrics, BERs will reflect not just energy use but lifecycle carbon impact.
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New BER certificates will include:
A QR code linking to detailed results
Tailored upgrade recommendations for your home
This makes it easier than ever to plan your retrofit journey.
Sample of New BER Assessment Certificate
What’s Not Changing?
It’s important to note that:
✔️ Existing BER certificates remain valid for 10 years
✔️ BER is still required for selling or renting a property
✔️ No change to when a BER is legally required
✔️ Certificates only need updating after major renovations
So, if you already have a BER it still stands.
What This Means for Retrofit Projects
The focus is moving from basic compliance to high-performance, low-carbon homes
At KORE Retrofit, we are already delivering projects aligned with this future:
Deep retrofits targeting A-rated homes and beyond
Fabric-first upgrades combined with renewable systems
Full support through SEAI grants and One Stop Shop delivery
KORE Retrofit can guide you through:
BER assessments
Grant applications
Full home energy upgrades
From initial enquiry to final certification all under one roof.