SEAI Awards Finalists
The standard of applications for the 2024 SEAI Energy Awards was exceptionally high. View the successful shortlisted projects.
Finalists 2024
See all of the finalists in each category below to read all about their incredible work and achievements.
Large Business
Rewarding organisations that have demonstrated achievements in energy efficiency and decarbonisation.
The finalists are:
AbbVie Team Evergreen, represent AbbVie in Ireland. Abbvie Team Evergreen is driving significant sustainable energy progress across many sites. With a robust energy management strategy and strong governance, they achieved a 7% reduction in overall emissions. There has been a 14% decrease in thermal energy usage in 2023. The team's efforts align with AbbVie's global targets, aiming for a 42% reduction in emissions by 2030.
Noteworthy initiatives include installing heat pumps, providing free EV charging, and hosting energy awareness events.
They have made a €13.4 million investment in 33 decarbonisation projects during 2022 and 2023. ~They are planning a further €3.9 million investment during 2024. AbbVie Evergreen continues to innovate in energy efficiency and sustainability. They have a comprehensive approach to energy management. From creating decarbonisation roadmaps to fostering employee engagement through Ecochallenge, an initiative that showcases a commitment to environmental responsibility and leadership in the biopharmaceutical sector.
Mannok is an experienced manufacturer of construction products and consumer packaging. Mannok has made large strides in sustainable energy practices. As part of their "Mannok 2030 Vision", they aim to reduce scope 1 and 2 emissions by 35% by 2030.
Achievements include the Fuel Flex™ technology, displacing 40,000 tons of coal with alternative fuels and reducing emissions by 58,000 t/CO2eq each year and saving nearly €12 million.
They plan to decrease emissions by another 49,000 t/CO2eq. Initiatives include a burner upgrade and process optimisations. Mannok's "Energy Valley Concept" has a 15-year plan to develop renewable energy assets. These plans include green hydrogen, solar PV, and wind.
They have combined innovation, collaboration, and effective energy management to contribute to national and international goals, positioning them as a model for decarbonisation in hard-to-abate industries.
Kyte Powertech Limited is a leader in the electrical industry. It has demonstrated a strong commitment to sustainability and energy management. The company established a dedicated energy team in 2009, since then, Kyte Powertech has achieved significant milestones, including ISO 50001 certification in 2014.
The company has reduced overall energy consumption by 48% and scope 1 emissions by 43%. Kyte Powertech has achieved a 74% reduction in overall emissions. Its comprehensive approach encompasses scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions. It installed 1MW solar panels and is has also shifted to self-generated electricity.
Kyte Powertech actively engages with the community through educational programs, promoting sustainability. These efforts underscore a robust commitment to achieving carbon neutrality by 2045. The company is setting a high standard in the manufacturing sector for environmental stewardship. It also has plans to provide carbon-neutral products to customers, certified to the ISO 14067 standard.
Medtronic's Parkmore site in Galway is making significant strides towards sustainability. In 2022 and 2023, the site undertook a comprehensive energy reduction initiative. Medtronic's global goal is to deliver carbon neutral operations by 2030 and it is set to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2045.
Key projects included converting natural-gas boilers to electrified heat pumps, reducing scope 1 emissions by 96% on campus. They have also completed LED replacements, the installation of a solar array and upgrades to their smart controls. Over 45 key opportunities were realised, achieving an energy reduction of 495MW.
These initiatives met Medtronic's 2025 sustainability goals two years ahead of schedule. It also fostered a culture of energy awareness among its 3,750 employees. The projects exemplify effective teamwork, innovative thinking, and strong leadership support. Medtronic is positioned as a leader in sustainable manufacturing within the healthcare sector.
Small and Medium Business
Rewarding small and medium businesses going beyond best practice in energy efficiency, energy management solutions or renewable technology deployments.
The finalists are:
Mahon Point Shopping Centre goes beyond best practice with managing its energy performance, combining strategic vision, innovative energy solutions, and significant environmental and economic benefits.
Since opening in 2005, the centre has implemented a range of sustainability initiatives, including the installation of 1,587 square meters of solar panels. a complete transition to LED lighting, and the use of renewable electricity. These efforts have led to substantial reductions in carbon emissions and energy consumption. Electrical energy usage has fallen by 37% and gas consumption by 42% from 2019 to 2023. Mahon Point has introduced EV charging stations, including Tesla superchargers. The centre has also achieved zero waste to landfill.
Mahon Point is the first building in Ireland to achieve an upgraded "Excellent" BREEAM Certification. This independent endorsement highlights the centre's leadership in sustainable retail. These initiatives attract eco-conscious customers, increase staff engagement, and improve customer satisfaction. The centre has an ongoing commitment to sustainability with plans to expand renewable energy use. It also promotes sustainable transport options, ensuring a positive impact on both the environment and business performance.
Killary Adventure Group stands out for its commitment to sustainability. It holds B Corp certification as evidence of environmental dedication.
Since its establishment, the group has invested in renewable energy. This includes a 6kW wind turbine and 60kW of solar panels. It has also implemented three heat pumps for efficient heating and hot water. These initiatives have substantially reduced reliance on fossil fuels.
Killary Adventure Group's sustainability strategy extends beyond energy, focusing on waste management. It uses onsite composting and runs educational programs for the youth about waste separation. The Group maintains biodiversity by planting 500 trees a year and manage invasive species. Community engagement is a priority, with the group being involved in local projects including the Leenane community playground and a public walking path.
Killary Adventure Group's approach enhances its operational efficiency, while also fostering a strong community connection. It is a model for integrating eco-friendly values into the adventure and hospitality sectors.
Ballyliffin Lodge & Spa, in Donegal, exemplifies leadership in sustainable hospitality. This family-run hotel has invested over €1 million in extensive sustainability initiatives.
The team has worked hard on enhancing its environmental and operational efficiency, installing a 288kW solar array. The hotel also invested in an advanced woodchip boiler heating system, coupled with a Heat Building Managment System (BMS). These systems optimise energy use based on room occupancy, drastically cutting utility costs. All these activities have led to impressive energy savings of €110,000. Ballyliffin also worked on in-house laundry services and sensor-activated LED lighting. There are also plans for a natural spring well to satisfy 90% of the hotel's water needs. These efforts enhance the hotel's operational efficiency and reinforce its commitment to environmental stewardship.
Ballyliffin Lodge & Spa's has an impressive dedication to sustainability, setting a high standard in the hospitality sector.
Poppies Café was established in 1983 as a small tearoom and in 2024 has evolved into a leader in sustainable hospitality. Peter Norton and his wife Fiona have embraced a variety of energy-efficient technologies.
Key investments include a solar array paired with a 15kW battery storage system. They have also installed an air-to-water heat pump which reuses kitchen heat for hot water. This has improved kitchen conditions and reduced energy costs. They've also installed sensor-operated lighting and taps, induction hobs, and energy-efficient ovens. All this work has decreased the café's energy consumption by 30%, waste by 40%, and water usage by 28%.
Poppies Café also supports local biodiversity initiatives with Peter and Fiona promoting cycling to cut the carbon footprint of their clientele. Poppies Café showcases how small businesses can make substantial contributions to environmental sustainability.
Public Sector
Rewarding public sector organisations that have demonstrated leadership in energy efficiency and decarbonisation
The finalists are:
Bus Éireann is Ireland's national bus company. With over 107 million annual passenger journeys and a fleet of 1,150 vehicles. Its updated Sustainability Strategy targets a 50% improvement in energy efficiency by 2030.The company is aiming for Net Zero Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 2040 and Net Zero Scope 3 by 2050.
Bus Éireann has achieved substantial milestones, including electrifying Athlone town's bus service. It has also piloted hydrogen Fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs) and is implementing solar PV installations. These initiatives align with national decarbonisation goals. Its ISO 50001 certification and a robust KPI framework supports this work, while senior leadership is deeply engaged.
Bus Éireann shows leadership through initiatives like their Eco Drive program, aimed at achieving an 80% eco-driving score by 2030. It is already at 53%. These efforts underscore its commitment to environmental stewardship. Bus Éireann is proactive in advancing Ireland's transition to a low carbon future.
The Defence Forces is a prominent energy user in the public sector. They are responsible for 7% of public sector emissions. They operate 17 full-time military installations and a significant transport fleet. The Defence Forces aims to grow to 11,000 personnel. This is all while achieving ambitious decarbonisation targets.
Since achieving ISO 50001 certification in 2011, they are continuously improving their energy management. They have reduced utility emissions by 29% and road transport emissions by 20%.
Key initiatives include retrofitting buildings to NZEB standards. They installed 3.3MWp of Solar PV. They also implemented a pioneering "Carbon Budget" system for fuel management.
Balancing operational readiness with sustainable practices, the Defence Forces have a comprehensive strategy for 2030. They are showcasing their commitment to reducing their carbon footprint and enhancing energy independence.
Dublin Airport stepped up to the challenge of decarbonisation, developing a Carbon Reduction Strategy to deliver their 2030 targets. These targets include a 51% reduction in carbon emissions. Its strategy also sets out 24 actions across three areas of decarbonisation, including heating, transport, and electricity.
A €425 million investment backs this strategy. These upgrades include a 9MWP solar farm, a 230 vehicle fleet transition, and heat pumps. The solar farm produces enough electricity to power 1,600 homes. The fleet is entirely Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) and Low Emission Vehicles (LEVs). Dublin Airport also invested €120 million in converting their heating systems to heat pumps.
Dublin Airport has shown that it goes beyond engineering aspects of decarbonisation. It is a leader in reaching out to people to drive change. The team provides training to staff and 3rd party tenants to understand their energy use. They have a firm belief in achieving a sustainable aviation future.
Inspirational Sustainable Energy Community
There are four Finalists in the ‘Inspirational Sustainable Energy Community’ category. You now have the opportunity to vote for your favourite community finalist below. Winners will be announced at the Awards ceremony taking place on Friday, 15th November.
A committee of Greystones Tidy Towns (GTT) founded GDSEC, teaming up with a few local climate action and sustainability advocates in the area. It all began over cups of coffee and tea, getting to know each other and discussing what they could do.
Their group want to tackle climate change, beginning at their doorstep. They also want to focus across communities., expanding their work to include Greystones, Delgany and adjacent villages. They wanted to embrace innovation through technology and nature-based solutions.
They have completed two cycles of the Solar PV Meitheal Programme. A Solar Meitheal is a community-led concept. It informs homeowners in a local area who want to install Solar Photovoltaic (PV) panels. In two years, this SEC has seen 30 PV installs in their local community.
GDSEC aims to support local residents, businesses and organisations. They want to guide them to reduce their carbon emissions. The impact of this is broad, not only are they tackling global climate change, but they are also reducing harmful environmental pollutants at local level.
Triple SEC is a collaboration between 3 neighbouring SECs in Dublin City which were all set up during 2020-21. Local volunteers make up the 3 SECs who meet regularly to plan their in-person and virtual events. They also work together to identify funding and support opportunities.
The 3 communities face similar challenges with similar house types. They have some of the lowest average Building Energy Ratings (BER) in the country. Their SECs have many areas of focus. From Biodiversity to Active Transport. When it comes to energy, their vision is clear, they want everyone to have comfortable homes that are affordable to heat.
In 2024 alone, they have organised multiple events; A Solar PV webinar, an in-person grant support day and a retrofit tour of the local area. They also organised a "Vision for Cabra" event, gaining insights into the challenges for their residents on energy efficiency. The group provides locals with real stories of retrofitting, collaborating with experts and local institutions.
Sligo SEC's vision is to create a sustainable, energy-efficient community. The primary focus areas of the SEC include behavioural change and energy education. They also look at energy efficiency and financial savings. Community energy generation is also a focus for them.
Currently, several energy projects are underway, including a home retrofitting project. They are also working on a community-owned solar PV project.
A significant focus is addressing fuel poverty through the Warmer Homes Scheme. This provides free energy upgrades to eligible homeowners. Since joining the programme in 2023, SLEA has led the retrofit of 35 low-income homes. In 2024, SLEA submitted six Community Energy Grant applications to retrofit various community buildings.
Through these initiatives, Sligo SEC demonstrates the effectiveness of collaborative, community-focused approaches.
Youghal Blue and Green Community Network host the Youghal Sustainable Energy Community. The Youghal Blue & Green Network is an environmental and coastal community network. It has 3 pillars under which it operates; The Coast and Marine (Blue), Nature and Biodiversity (Green), and Energy.
Individual volunteers, and representatives from other community organisations make up the SEC. The Network decided there was a need and a demand to do more for the energy transition. As a result, they formed the Youghal Blue and Green Sustainable Energy Community.
Their current focus has been promoting the Warmer Homes Scheme, helping people who are in receipt of Fuel Allowance to avail of the fully funded retrofit. They actively collaborate with schools, businesses, and local government and are currently developing the integration of renewable energy education into the curriculum.
They want to ensure Youghal is the healthiest, cleanest, most environmentally friendly town to live and work in.
Energy in Buildings Finalists
Celebrates sustainable and low carbon buildings that have demonstrated new and emerging best practice design, construction, retrofit and operation of new and existing buildings.
The finalists are:
Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council developed the Ballyogan Square project. This project stands out as a pioneering example of sustainable social housing. It is built on residual lands from the M50 motorway construction. This development features 67 new two and three-bedroom terrace houses. They are all designed to Passive House standards.
The design emphasises a "fabric first" approach. It optimises building envelope performance with high airtightness, continuous insulation, and solar gain. Triple-glazed windows and minimal thermal bridging complement this sustainable design. The homes achieve an A1 BER rating. They include solar PV panels, heat pumps, and mechanical ventilation with heat recovery (MVHR). This results in low energy bills and enhanced indoor air quality.
The project integrates with the existing community and promotes pedestrian and cycle connectivity to amenities and public transport. Ballyogan Square is proof that high quality, energy efficient housing can happen quickly. It exemplifies how modern methods of construction can improve the local environment and is setting a benchmark for future sustainable developments in Ireland.
The Office of Public Works (OPW) manage the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications (DECC) Headquarters. This is a standout example of sustainable refurbishment. They completed a deep retrofit of a six-storey 1970s office building, transforming it into a modern, flexible workplace. It has a strong focus on energy performance, embodied carbon and the circular economy. The building is set to achieve a 75% reduction in primary energy use and is meeting NZEB standards for new buildings.
Sustainable features include a new central atrium for natural ventilation and daylight. They also use PV panels extensively. Air source heat pumps are also close to eliminating fossil fuel reliance. The design strategy incorporates water-saving technologies and promotes biodiversity through selected planting.
The project achieved a 51% reduction in embodied carbon compared to a new build showing that huge improvements can be made by retaining and enhancing existing structures. This building demonstrates a commitment to sustainability in public sector buildings.
Wicklow County Council lead the Bray Fire Station Decarbonisation Project creating its first fully decarbonised building. It exemplifies modernising public sector buildings for energy efficiency and sustainability.
Bray Fire Station was identified as one of the council's largest fossil fuel users. It underwent a comprehensive retrofit to end its reliance on natural gas. This included the installation of a renewable air-to-water heat pump. New radiators, upgraded pipework were installed and windows and doors were replaced. These efforts will result in a 60% reduction in energy use and an impressive 100% reduction in direct carbon emissions. The project aligns with the council's 2030 carbon reduction targets and serves as a model for similar initiatives.
This project enhances comfort and operational efficiency showing a commitment to sustainability. The Bray Fire Station Decarbonisation Project demonstrates climate action in public sector infrastructure.
UCD Lochlann Quinn School of Business showcases a successful retrofit of a 2002-built, D1 BER-rated building. 2023 saw the completion of the project transformng it into an energy-efficient facility.
UCD implemented comprehensive upgrades including heat recovery ventilation. They switched from gas boilers to district heating and implemented hot water heat pumps, and solar PV installations.
They have connected the building into the UCD District Heating System. The building now integrates renewable energy sources like biomass and heat pumps. This is coupled with improved insulation, air tightness, and high-efficiency fan systems. These changes have significantly reduced the building's energy use and carbon footprint, achieving an estimated 15% reduction in CO2 emissions compared to the previous year. Further improvements are expected as UCD's district heating system evolves.
Teamwork, leadership and exemplar design have made this a hugely successful project. There's huge potential for replicating the key energy and CO2 performance improvements elsewhere and UCD has demonstrated that this can be done on time and within budget.
Renewable Energy
This Innovative Deployment of Renewable Energy award recognises organisations that have demonstrated a high level of innovation in the deployment and/or operation of a functioning renewable energy project. Projects may be in renewable heat, electricity or transport, and may include projects for self-supply to a discrete facility.
Only one nominee in the Innovative Renewable Energy category was assessed by the judging panel to have met the category eligibility criteria and the required threshold of excellence. This one nominee is thus the category winner, and they will be named at the SEAI Energy Awards gala ceremony in November.
Excellence in Energy Research Finalists
Rewarding organisations that have researched and developed innovative energy-related technologies, processes or systems, which contribute significantly to Ireland's clean energy transition.
The finalists are:
TechWorks Marine run the CoastEO|2 project. This project represents a significant innovation in the Ocean Renewable Energy (ORE) sector. It provides a data fusion platform, integrating in-situ and satellite data in real-time.
Developed in-house, this tool addresses key challenges in offshore renewable energy projects, enhancing site selection, energy yield determination, and strategic communications through precise data. By leveraging both satellite and in-situ data, CoastEO|2 offers a solution. It reduces reliance on expensive, traditional data collection methods, all while maintaining data accuracy and reliability. The platform fills data gaps due to cloud cover or limited satellite pass frequency ensuring continuous and reliable data streams. These are crucial for project planning and maintenance.
Already working with Met Éireann and the Office of Public Works, the project has been a great success, underlining its potential to accelerate Ireland's clean energy transition and setting new standards for data-driven decision-making in marine and offshore energy projects.
BDP's research project addresses a long-standing challenge in building energy simulation. They are developing a new method for instantaneous dynamic simulation using neural networks. A neural network is a method of artificial intelligence teaching computers to process data in a way that is inspired by the human brain.
Traditional dynamic simulations are often slow and prone to errors making them less effective for real-time design optimisation. This project leverages neural networks and machine learning to provide instant results. This improves the efficiency and accuracy of building performance simulations significantly.
The project has already delivered practical applications, including a software tool that allows architects to optimise building facades quickly. It is enhancing sustainable design practices without the usual complexities. The research has uncovered industry misconceptions about façade optimisation. It offers insights that could transform the design of energy-efficient buildings, particularly in sectors such as schools and offices.
This is a pioneering solution, developed on a modest budget. It has substantial potential to advance Ireland's energy transition.
University College Dublin leads the Bike Library project. Its goal is to understand and promote sustainable mobility through community engagement. The project looks at the potential for e-bikes to shift transport in urban settings.
It provides families with the opportunity to trial various e-bikes for three months, allowing them to explore barriers such as safety concerns and high costs. Researchers gather valuable data on user behaviour and preferences. They are also gathering data on e-mobility reducing carbon emissions and traffic congestion.
Participants travelled over 100,000 kilometres. This robust dataset analyses the environmental benefits and societal impacts of e-bike usage. The project has also contributed to narrowing the "gender-cycling gap", with the majority of participants being women, contrary to national trends.
These findings have important implications for policy and infrastructure planning. The Bike Library project is an important study in advancing Ireland's clean energy transition.
Transport
Recognising exemplary performance and innovation in low emissions transport.
The finalists are:
The ESB eBikes pilot took place from September 2022 to October 2023. It represents a significant advance in shared e-mobility solutions in Ireland. This initiative sought to explore and validate the potential of e-bike sharing.
The Dublin based project looked at reducing car dependency and CO2 emissions. The pilot featured eHUBs equipped with docking and charging infrastructure and was designed for convenient access to e-bikes for residents, commuters, and visitors.
There have been many learnings from the pilot, including t how to reduce traffic congestion, lower CO2 emissions, and improve air quality and that integrating eHUBs with existing services and infrastructure can enhance their effectiveness. The research has contributed to a blueprint for e-mobility hubs across Europe. Trinity College Dublin and Newcastle University partnered with ESB eBikes for this project and together they are promoting standardised practices.
The success of the ESB eBikes pilot highlights the potential for shared mobility solutions. Projects like this drive substantial environmental benefits and provide valuable insights for scaling e-mobility infrastructure.
In 2018, Fingal County Council initiated its Fleet Electrification Programme and rapidly advanced the electrification of their commercial fleet.
Starting with five Citroen Berlingo vans the fleet has now grown to 86 fully electric vehicles, including vans, tipper trucks, and utility vehicles. The programme also features an extensive charging infrastructure with hubs in Balbriggan and Swords. Fingal phased the transition to accommodate operational needs and included comprehensive driver training.
Key benefits include a 55,000-litre reduction in diesel consumption annually and substantial cost savings on fuel and maintenance.
This fleet electrification initiative aligns with national decarbonisation goals. The council is showing leadership within the local authority sector. Commitment to sustainability and innovative fleet management is central to this project.
BWG Foods completed an extensive Transport Decarbonisation Project with a goal to deliver a superior sustainable distribution service. It wants to enhance operational effectiveness, and minimise distance travelled. The goal is to reduce CO2 emissions, operational costs and fossil fuel dependence.
BWG introduced Compressed Nation Gas (CNG) and biogas vehicles, providing a 90% CO2 reduction. Hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) diesel alternatives were also used, providing a 70% CO2 reduction. It also introduced the very first electric Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs) in Ireland.
The primary success of this campaign was inventiveness. BWG implemented various alternative fuels and consolidated loads, creating customised route plans. The use of eco-efficient technologies led to significant mileage reductions which resulted in operational cost savings. The project involved collaboration with partners and vehicle manufacturers. They share data and promote sustainable practices industry-wide. It has led to substantial emissions cuts. The project has seen a reduction of 100 vans on Irish roads and positioned BWG Foods as a leader in eco-friendly logistics.
In October 2022, UCD launched the Bike Library initiative. It promotes sustainable transport by offering Dublin families free trials of sustainable bikes, including eBikes, eCargo bikes, and folding bikes. Families can trial them for up to three months.
This project began at Harold's Cross Educate Together successfully eliminating car use among participating families. The program expanded to 23 additional locations, including schools and public libraries, engaging around 500 families.
By providing these bikes at no cost, UCD addresses barriers to cycling, in particular, high upfront costs and encourages a shift from car use to cycling. The project has effectively reduced car journeys and has promoted healthier lifestyles. UCD has gathered valuable data on cycling patterns to inform future infrastructure development. The ability to attract diverse participants highlights the initiative's success.
Projects like the UCD Bike Library impact local transport behaviours, encouraging a shift towards more sustainable transport options in Ireland.
Residential Energy Upgrades Finalists
Recognises those who embrace the pursuit of sustainable energy by designing and/or delivering energy upgrades to existing homes.
The finalists are:
Electric Ireland Superhomes is a collaboration between Tipperary Energy Agency and Electric Ireland. They have finance partnerships with AIB, Thurles and First Choice Credit Unions. Together they enhance residential energy efficiency through their One Stop Shop model.
2021 saw the establishment of Electric Ireland Superhomes. They manage home retrofits from design through to grant administration. All projects aim for a minimum B2 Building Energy Rating (BER). The program employs a 'fabric first' strategy. This is to address energy inefficiencies before integrating renewable technologies. these technologies could be air source heat pumps or solar power.
Between 2021 and 2023, they completed over 600 retrofits. 99% are A-rated homes saving 29.3 GWh of energy and abating 9,540 tonnes of CO2. Aware of the cost of retrofit, they established finance partnerships with AIB, Thurles Credit Union and First Choice Credit Union.
The initiative focuses on impartial advice. They look at advanced retrofit design, interior air quality and significant carbon reductions. Electric Ireland Superhomes commits to improving home comfort. Their work contributes significantly to Ireland's climate goals.
SOLA Energy Solutions is a leading force in Ireland's transition to renewable energy, empowering Irish homeowners to achieve energy independence.
SOLA spearheaded a significant retrofit project at Able Manor, Dundrum, Co. Tipperary, improving energy efficiency for 10 detached homes built in 2002. The project's motivations encompass environmental responsibility, focussing on financial gain for homeowners and improved living standards.
This initiative aimed to transform properties from a C3 to an A3 Building Energy Rating (BER). Employing a fabric-first approach, SOLA enhanced insulation, airtightness, and replaced old systems. It introduced cutting-edge technologies like air-to-water heat pumps and triple glazed windows. The retrofit cut annual CO2 emissions by 3.9 tonnes per house. Notably, it took under eight weeks to complete the project.
This project shows how SOLA is creating greener, more sustainable Irish homes. It has significantly impacted the environment by retrofitting 10 houses of this age.
OldBuilders Company have a track record of working in conservation of historic buildings. They carried out a notable conservation retrofit at Knockduff House in Carlow - a historic farmhouse dating from 1720-1740.
The project involved extensive insulation upgrades. It was important to them to preserve architectural integrity, so they used natural and breathable materials such as cork lime plaster, hemp shive and hemp wool. This approach addressed issues of cold bridging and humidity. They implemented heat exchange units in wet rooms and underfloor heating throughout.
The use of eco-friendly materials ensured a sustainable retrofit, significantly improving thermal performance of the 300-year-old structure without compromising the building's historical value.
The precise detailing shows how conservation and energy efficiency can exist together. There are over 250,000 traditional residential buildings in Ireland, making up 15% of Ireland's housing stock. This project reveals how integrating modern comfort with historic preservation is possible.
Sustainability via Digital Technologies in Construction and Buildings Finalists
Rewarding organisations that have demonstrated achievements in the use of digital technology to reduce the carbon emissions of a building.
The finalists are:
DCT is a global digital construction and Building Information Management (BIM) consultancy firm. It has made significant strides in advancing the digitalisation of energy-efficient building retrofits.
DCT's platform enhances the precision of energy modelling and retrofit planning, using technologies such as data analytics and machine learning. This approach allows for more accurate forecasting of energy savings and carbon reduction, supporting better decision-making in building renovations.
DCT provides a comprehensive view of building performance by integrating real-time monitoring. This helps to optimise retrofit measures and improve energy efficiency. Its work aligns with Ireland's goals for sustainable construction, while promoting data-driven strategies that enhance building sustainability.
DCT has documented significant energy savings and improved operational efficiency, showing how digital tools can contribute to Ireland's climate targets.
The National Museum of Ireland (NMI) used digital technology to enhance energy efficiency, achieving a 32% reduction in natural gas usage, a 12% reduction in electricity consumption, and a 28% decrease in CO2 emissions within just 18 months.
The Museum implemented an innovative Internet of Things (IoT) based Energy Monitoring System transforming its approach to energy management. It has identified over 100 energy-saving opportunities with minimal capital investment.
This digital transformation offers a cost-effective solution for ongoing energy monitoring. It also fosters greater engagement and awareness among staff and management. The success of this initiative has increased participation in NMI's Green Team boosting their Climate Action Roadmap.
NMI's efforts serve as a model for other public bodies by showcasing how digital innovation can drive substantial energy savings and can help mobilise stakeholders and support Ireland's sustainability goals.
Energy Team / Energy Manager of the Year Finalists
Demonstrated leadership and ambition in implementing high-impact sustainable energy programmes and delivering significant benefits for their organisation. Focus on energy and non-energy people/teams driving sustainable energy change within their organisation
The finalists are:
Lidl Ireland's Energy and Sustainability Team have a strong commitment to environmental stewardship. Their "A Better Tomorrow" programme has a target of 46.2% reduction in scope 1 and 2 carbon emissions by 2030. Lidl has prioritised energy efficient technologies and its ultimate goal is to have a positive impact on the environment.
Lidl installed 150kWp solar PV systems in 24 stores in 2023. It is the largest owner of rooftop solar PV in Ireland. Its total solar capacity could supply electricity to 650 homes in Ireland.
This is part of a broader strategy incorporating energy-efficient technologies across operations, including high-efficiency HVAC systems and EV chargers. These significantly contribute to the company's sustainability goals.
Lidl Ireland plays a role in promoting sustainable practices within the retail industry. The team's initiatives have notably influenced Lidl's corporate culture. They engage with customers and suppliers and are active in the Corporate Social Responsibility domain.
Thermo Fisher Scientific Cork is a 52-acre site with over 500 employees. It is a leader in sustainability within the pharmaceutical manufacturing sector. It has used an ISO50001 certified Energy Management System since 2012.
The Energy Team includes engineers, environmental scientists, and operations staff. Together they have driven significant improvements and their strategic initiatives include energy-efficient design, heat recovery, and HVAC upgrades. The team's approach includes rigorous measurement and verification, supported by senior management.
Since 2022, they have achieved a verified reduction of over 8.2 million kWh. There is an additional reduction of 13.5 million kWh in the Measurement & Verification (M&V) process. The campus's energy strategy has led to a 44% reduction in CO2 emissions over the past decade. Their goal is to save an additional 7.5 GWh by the end of 2024. Their commitment extends to industry collaboration and knowledge sharing. Energy Leadership is at the core of the work they do.
The Swords Pavilions Zero Team has worked hard on reducing its carbon footprint. They are aiming to be Net Zero Carbon by 2030. As a shopping centre, the team is very focused on making a difference within their local community. They also want to be a leader in their industry and ultimately contribute to making our planet a better place to live..
The Shopping Centre has completely removed gas from all landlord operations in 2023,resulting in a reduction of 250 tonnes of CO2. The team also implemented natural ventilation, solar PV, LED lighting upgrades, and gas boiler replacements. All this work has achieved a 70% reduction in landlord emissions since 2019.
These projects have led to a 62% reduction in energy consumption and they have already surpassed their interim targets for 2025. Swords Pavilions is on track to meet its 2030 goals. While the cost savings are fantastic, it has also enhanced community engagement and they identify educational opportunities, enhancing tenant and customer sustainability understanding.
Johnson & Johnson's Campus Ireland Energy Team showcase leadership in energy management. The team has driven significant advancements across four manufacturing facilities. They include experts in energy engineering, industrial engineering, architectural design, and digital solutions.
Their efforts led to a substantial 85% reduction in CO2 emissions by 2020. They achieved the target of sourcing 100% renewable electricity five years early.
The team has implemented energy optimisation projects, including advanced heat recovery techniques and exploring alternative fuels like biomethane. These initiatives resulted in significant savings of 9.7 gigawatt-hours in 2023 alone. The team has achieved ISO 50001 certification across all sites.
Emphasising collaboration, they harness their collective strengths to tackle complex projects. Their enduring legacy of achievements in energy and sustainability spans 20 years. The team's journey is not just about meeting targets, it embodies their collective passion to make a meaningful impact on the environment.