Start an Energy Community
An energy project requires time, commitment and an informed approach. Working together as a community means a shared workload, better value for money, and a bigger impact.
Why work as a group
In Ireland hundreds of communities are working together to become more sustainable in how they use energy. These are some reasons why:
- Changing our energy use creates one of the biggest impacts for sustainability and the environment. Acting together means this impact goes even further.
- We can reduce energy bills in the community by doing local energy projects. This means we free up more money to spend in the community in the longer term.
- Community energy projects mean warmer, healthier homes and community buildings. It improves quality of life, especially for the vulnerable in the community.
- These projects can bring the community together and contribute to bigger goals such as Tidy Towns, green tourism, and eco-congregation activities.
What energy communities do
Groups of people come together to improve how energy is used for the benefit of their community. They look at how we can use energy in a sustainable, holistic way. Energy communities often look at projects in homes, transport and local business. They also look at community buildings such as schools, community centres, and sports facilities.
Their common goals
Use less energy
Energy efficiency is the cheapest and most straightforward way for a community to become more sustainable. Most communities have buildings with old or outdated insulation, lighting or heating systems.
Use clean energy
Switching from fossil fuels to renewables is the next step where possible. This can be by way of renewable heating systems, changing energy suppliers, or generating energy.
Use smart energy
Technology gives us more control over how we heat homes, drive cars, or light buildings. Where suitable, communities can use these technologies to compliment their other actions.
Get started
Build your group
To start you need to get a group together. The more hands, heads and skills the better, but the main ingredients are enthusiasm and drive. Find out who you need to set up a steering committee.
Register with SEAI
Join the Sustainable Energy Community network. This way you can access the supports available through SEAI. Learn more about joining the Sustainable Energy Network.
Talk to your mentor
A mentor will get in contact with you to help you get the ball rolling. They might invite you to events or workshops so you can meet with other communities and learn more about what you can do.