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Ireland is projected to miss its target of retrofitting 400,000 homes with heat pumps by 12 years, reaching this goal in 2042 instead of 2030, according to a study by TU Dublin’s Irish Building Stock Observatory. Key barriers include the 'comfort barrier' affecting C-rated homes, where homeowners are hesitant to invest in upgrades.

The study also points to stringent heat loss indicator criteria for state grants limiting heat pump installations. The Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland reported that only 4,360 homes received heat pump grants last year, while over 30,000 opted for solar PV grants. Recent changes to the grant system aim to alleviate some adoption barriers.