Local buy-in sought in Laois town for sustainable energy masterplan

A new plan is set to be launched in Durrow with the aim of making the Laois town energy efficient.

On Saturday,  November 4 at 10am in The Castle Arms Hotel Durrow, Durrow Sustainable Energy Community in partnership with Tidy Towns, Laois County Council, SEAI and Climate 23 will unveil their Energy Master Plan. Sustainable Energy Communities is a programme led by SEAI that enables communities to work together to achieve their energy goals.

The local coalition says the plan aims to understand the energy usage from different sectors of the community - residential, business and transport. 

The findings will inform decisions towards the sustainable future energy needs of Durrow.

Durrow Tidy Towns say information at the launch will be tailored to Durrow, and so this is a great opportunity for businesses and households to find out how to retrofit and change to renewable energy and the supports available.

Kevin Delaney said is a Durrow Sustainable Community member.

“It’s hoped that we can make Durrow an energy-efficient community to live in, while also improving public wellbeing and comfort through energy-efficient buildings,” he said.

Cllr Ollie Clooney is also supporting the initiative.

“I am pleased to see this important work commencing here in Durrow. It’s vital in the midst of an energy and cost of living crisis, that we have a good understanding of our current and future needs,” he said.

On the morning there will be presentations from Durrow Sustainable Energy Community members, followed by the Energy Master Plan consultants Climate23 who will present the findings of the local energy study. SEAI will present details on grant funding programmes that can help energy projects for homes, business owners and community organisations.

Also available will be practical information for homeowners and businesses with representatives from various groups including:

• SEAI,
• One Stop Shop Contractors,
• Solar Suppliers/Installers,
• Energy Consultants and BER Assessors,
• Local Enterprise Office,
• Durrow Tidy Towns
• Local lenders.

Laois debate in Portlaoise to tackle thorny topic of Ireland’s climate future

Local people are encouraged to attend the event.