The Project: Kilkenny Better Energy Communities (BEC)

In 2013 Kilkenny County Council and the Carlow Kilkenny Energy Agency (CKEA) applied to the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland for funding under the Better Energy Community grants scheme.

This was a unique collaboration between several local community groups, including a GAA Club, local hotels, community centres, social and voluntary housing demonstrating the significant energy efficiencies that can be achieved through a collective community approach.

• Local Authority – Energy retrofit in 140 Social Houses & City Hall Energy Upgrades.
• Community – GAA Club; O’Loughlin Gaels GAA Club, 2 Community Centres; St Canice’s Community Action & Fr McGrath Centre and 38 Voluntary Houses.
• Commercial – 3 Hotels in Kilkenny City; Hibernian Hotel, Pembroke Hotel and Newpark Hotel.

The participants benefited from energy efficient upgrades in terms of internal lighting, insulation, energy efficient cooling systems, heating controls, renewable energy and improved energy management systems.

The great success of this project is not only proven by the 34% energy reduction achieved in the first year, but also by the impact in the day to day life of over 178 families, over 500 people and creating over 27 local trade jobs in 2013.

Under this years BEC offering free audits and information evenings has increased the participation from the community.

 

The SEAI Sustainable Energy Awards:

The Sustainable Energy Awards are held annually by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland. They are intended to encourage, recognise and reward excellence in energy management in the industrial, commercial, community and public sectors. The awards focus on individuals, groups and organisations who demonstrate a commitment to energy management and energy efficiency.

This year the “Kilkenny Better Energy Communities” project was shortlisted in the “Community” category. A gala award ceremony was held in the Shelbourne Hotel on the 13th of November 2014 where “Kilkenny Better Energy Communities” won the Community Award.

This prestigious Award is a great recognition and motivation to keep working with local organizations, businesses and individuals to make Kilkenny a better and more sustainable community

Paddy Phelan – Manager, Carlow Kilkenny Energy Agency

John Mulholland, Acting Chief Executive, Kilkenny County Council receiving the “SEAI Community Award” on behalf of Kilkenny Better Energy Communities from The Minister for Communications Energy and Natural Resources, Alex While TD. Also pictured (l – r) are Dr Brian Motherway, CEO SEAI, Paddy Phelan, Manager Carlow Kilkenny Energy Agency, Elizabeth Cosgrave, Energy Engineer Carlow Kilkenny Energy Agency and Jim Dollard, Executive Director Electric Ireland.