Laois County Council honoured with OPW Energy Progress Award

Laois County Council has been awarded the prestigious OPW Energy Progress Award, recognising the Council’s outstanding achievement in surpassing a 30% energy reduction milestone.

This significant accomplishment is part of the Optimising Power @ Work (OP@W) programme, an energy efficiency awareness initiative spearheaded by the Office of Public Works (OPW).

Since joining the OP@W programme in 2014, Laois County Council has been dedicated to improving energy efficiency, particularly at County Hall. Over the past decade, the Council’s commitment to reducing energy consumption has not only enhanced sustainability but also delivered substantial cost savings.

The award was accepted on behalf of Laois County Council by Simon Walton, Interim Chief Executive, who expressed his pride in the Council’s achievement and commitment to continuing its energy efficiency efforts. CONTINUE READING BELOW PHOTO

Pictured at County Hall, Portlaoise for the presentation of the Energy Progress Award, were : Martin Breen ( O.P.W.), Donal Brennan ( Director of Services, Laois Co Council ), Thomas O'Connor ( O.P.W. ) presenting the Award to Simon Walton ( Interim Chief Executive , Laois Co Council ), John Kirby and Ken Morley ( Laois Co Council ) and Suzanne Dempsey ( Climate Action Coordinator & A/Energy Officer LCC ) . Photo: Michael Scully

Mr Walton also acknowledged the significant contributions of John Kirby, Suzanne Dempsey and Ken Morley supported by Donal Brennan, Director of Services who have played key roles in implementing a range of energy-saving projects over the last five years. These projects include the installation of a new Building Energy Management System, the installation of Thermostatic Radiator Valves, internal and external LED lighting replacements, and the integration of heat pumps. Their collective efforts have been instrumental in reaching the 30% energy reduction milestone.

Suzanne Dempsey, Energy Officer at Laois County Council, also took the opportunity to thank Tom O'Connor, the OPW-appointed Energy Adviser for Laois County Hall since 2017, for his invaluable assistance over the years. Suzanne wished Tom well in his future endeavours as the Council welcomes Martin Breen, the new Energy Adviser from Optimising Power @ Work Programme.

Tom O'Connor praised the Council’s dedication, stating: “I have had the pleasure of working with Laois County Hall’s team to promote the Optimising Power @ Work energy conservation campaign. The 30% energy reduction achieved in 2024, compared to the benchmark year of 2014, is a testament to the hard work, diligence, and dedication of the Energy and Facilities Teams on site.”