SEAI Energy Awards Finalists

AbbVie is a global biopharmaceutical company. AbbVie Team Evergreen are shortlisted for their comprehensive application which covers multiple sites. Demonstrating leadership in delivering energy efficiency, renewable energy, and decarbonisation. AbbVie Team Evergreen’s achievements since 2021 include a 21% reduction in thermal energy, an 18% reduction in overall market-based emissions, and 100% purchased renewable electricity. This has been delivered through strong governance, teamwork, collaboration, and benchmarking. AbbVie Team Evergreen have developed decarbonisation roadmaps for each site, carefully selecting opportunities, and securing funding for fifty-three projects.

The adoption of low-GWP Industrial Heat Pumps for HVAC is seen as an example of innovation and best practice. Engagement and innovation programmes such as the AbbVie Ecochallenge, Spark Innovation Accelerator programme  along with their Global Week of Volunteering (WOP) are also essential elements of their overall decarbonisation journey.

Astellas Ireland Co., Ltd. (Kerry Plant) is a finished goods pharmaceutical facility situated in Killorglin on the idyllic ring of Kerry. Astellas was shortlisted due to its exemplary commitment to sustainability and innovative energy management practices. The site has demonstrated a proactive approach by implementing a comprehensive Energy Management Programme that has resulted in significant energy savings - over 9.5 million kWH since 2015. 

The leadership of the Energy Management Committee has been pivotal in driving forward ambitious projects, such as the 1.6 MW solar PV installation, which is set to generate 1.4 GWh of renewable electricity annually. Astellas has also prioritised staff engagement through training and communication, fostering a culture of sustainability that enables employees to contribute to energy-saving initiatives and ideas in their own departments.

These achievements not only highlight Astellas' dedication to reducing its carbon footprint but also showcase its ability to enhance operational efficiency in a challenging energy landscape.

Kepak is an Irish based food company serving international markets, restaurants and household foodservice names with prime cuts of meat, food service solutions and ready for market convenience food. They are founding members of Origin Green, Ireland's pioneering food and drink sustainability programme, since 2012, achieving gold membership for the last 3 consecutive years. 

Shortlisted for their energy management, commitment, training, staff engagement, energy mapping, energy mass balancing, cost analysis, idea generation and change management. They have installed wind turbines, solar and heat pumps that have all been critical to decarbonisation. Kepak places strong emphasis on building a culture of energy efficiency first, ensuring they are not investing in technology to decarbonise energy that is then wasted.  

The level of expertise gained enables their staff to make better decisions, when it comes to this progression. This approach has proven that opportunities multiply as they are seized. They are also making decisions now, that will deliver change in 2026 and 2027. 

ThermoFisher Scientific’s Cork site is a 52-acre pharmaceutical manufacturing site located on the shores of Cork Harbour. Their Energy Management System is embedded into every aspect of operations, from technical systems and capital planning to culture and capability-building. The programme continues to evolve, with major investments in renewable electricity generation, solvent emissions reduction, and heat recovery.

Since 2022, the site has delivered over 16 GWh in verified energy savings, eliminated Scope 2 emissions, and reduced natural gas use by 12%. These results are grounded in robust technical work, underpinned by SEAI’s EXEED framework and a decarbonisation roadmap aligned with their 2030 Vision. 

It isn’t just about the scale of impact they’ve had, it’s the culture that drives it, one of ownership, collaboration, and continuous learning. They believe real progress happens when organisations are willing to share their experiences and learn from one another. Their alignment of leadership, systems, and culture, built not overnight, but over decades of thoughtful, sustained effort makes them a worthy finalist in this category.

Cabra Castle Hotel is an 18th century family-owned and run 4* property located at the heart of Co. Cavan, surrounded by 100 acres of beautiful parkland.

Cabra Castle has demonstrated a holistic approach to sustainability, showcasing how their initiatives not only minimise environmental impact but also contribute to social well-being and economic viability. Their approach highlights the use of innovative solutions, uses of sustainable materials and technologies. They have embraced environmental change over the past number of years across all aspects of their business. Their staff have been at the forefront of this change, embracing the initiatives introduced and trying their best to ensure success.

Not only have they reduced energy usage, but they have reduced their carbon emissions by over 16% in the past 3 years through continuous investment in energy and water conservation, waste reduction, and biodiversity.

The Markree Castle Hotel is a 4-star hotel located in Collooney, Co. Sligo and is set in five hundred acres of wood and farmland. Originally constructed in the 14th century, the building as it stands now was constructed in the 17th century. It was extensively refurbished in 2017 by the present owners.

As a building listed on the National Built Heritage Service, the hotel is limited in the upgrade interventions that it can implement as its internal fixtures and fittings are protected. They installed a wood biomass boiler system through SEAI’s Support Scheme for Renewable Heat (SSRH). Overall, they’ve seen an 82% reduction in  CO₂ emissions and €155,000 savings on their energy bills.

Markree Castle has demonstrated that even in very old, protected structures with the right approach and investment; building operators can deliver smarter, greener, more sustainable facilities. Four hundred years ago, this building was heated by wood, now they have gone back to their roots to help reduce their environmental impact and safeguard the environment for future generations to enjoy.

Pembroke Hotel is a 4-star boutique hotel located in the heart of Kilkenny City, operating since 2004. With a strong focus on guest experience and environmental responsibility, the hotel has positioned itself as a leader in sustainable hospitality. Pembroke Hotel has undertaken a phased approach to decarbonising its operations, supported by South East Energy Agency and funded in part through SEAI’s Community Energy Grants. 

 These upgrades have included significant improvements to heating, ventilation, and kitchen systems, as well as smart controls and building fabric enhancements. The result is a modern, comfortable, and energy-efficient property that reflects the hotel’s commitment to becoming carbon neutral. Through this ongoing journey, Pembroke Hotel has achieved major energy savings, reduced emissions, and set a clear example of climate leadership in the Irish hospitality sector.

The results speak for themselves: over 107 tonnes of CO₂ saved annually, nearly half a million kWh reduced, and more than €36,000 cut from energy bills each year. This story of leadership and innovation is scalable and inspiring for others in the hospitality sector.

Roganstown Hotel and Country Club opened for business in 2004 and was converted from a family farm. Roganstown are very conscious of their responsibility to the environment. 

Their investment has dramatically reduced their carbon footprint. They have planted 65,000 trees on the property in the last 20 years. They heat the buildings using renewables and cut all the fairways on the 2 golf courses with electric robotic mowers (the first in Ireland to do so). When you include their tree plantations, they now offset more carbon than they create. 

Since 2023 they have reduced their carbon footprint by 237 tonnes per annum. With their tree plantation sequestering circa 325 tonnes of CO2 per annum. Their carbon footprint is now reduced by 43 tonnes per annum. They are proof that investment in green initiatives is not only good for the environment but is also good for the bottom-line, recouping on their investments in less than 4 years.

9 White Deer Brewery is a microbrewery in Ballyvourney in the Mhúscrai Gaeltacht dedicated to brewing and packaging high-quality beers for the Irish market. They are a small business taking real, measurable steps to decarbonise through smart investment, engineering-led innovation, and a culture of continuous improvement. Rather than relying on symbolic gestures or carbon offsets, they’ve implemented systems that tangibly reduce energy use, emissions, and waste.

They’ve installed solar PV, smart-enabled thermal and chilled water systems, and on-site nitrogen generation, all contributing to lower fossil fuel dependency and enhanced process efficiency. These aren’t isolated upgrades—they form an integrated energy strategy that they monitor, adapt, and continuously improve.

Beyond energy savings, the project has increased staff engagement, strengthened their operational resilience, and reinforced their brand’s commitment to sustainability. Their approach has created a more robust, future-ready brewery without compromising product quality or value. This project showcases how rural Irish SMEs can lead by example, not through greenwashing, but through pure dedication to people, process, and planet.

Inch Beach House and Inch Beach Holiday Homes is a family-run business. It includes 9 self-catering cottages and a B&B. The cottages were built and opened in 1998 and the B&B in 2002. Each Winter, they are trying to improve their premises. 

Spanning back to 2012, where they engaged with the Warmer Homes Scheme through SEAI, Inch Beach has worked consistently on their plan to become more sustainable. Through a mentor they created a plan and implemented insulation, they also made extensive investment in their holiday homes and B&B, where they have installed heat pumps and solar PV throughout the business. 

Receiving great feedback from the local community and guests, despite a significant investment, they can already see the savings and are a great model for how a small business in rural Ireland can transform their operations in an environmentally friendly way.

Since 1981, Killary Adventure Company is an independent, family-run business based in Connemara where sustainability is built into how they run their business. Everything they do is shaped by the land; they live and work in one of the most beautiful and remote parts of Ireland, and protecting it, is central to how they operate. They’ve been working on sustainability for over 20 years: building with green rooves, generating their own power, composting waste, reducing plastic, and planting trees.

The scale of change they have achieved as a small business with limited resources is impressive. They have invested in renewables, reduced waste, improved infrastructure, and created jobs, all while staying grounded in the community they are part of. Their business now includes an eco-campus powered by solar, wind, heat pumps, and biomass. They handle food waste on-site, reduce water use, build with sustainable materials, and plant hundreds of native trees each year.

Killary Adventure Company shows the value of long-term, practical commitment. No perfect claims. Just honest, visible, hard-won progress in a place where change is not easy — and where it matters.

Wild Cabins Kinvara is a set of 5 architect-designed, off-grid eco-cabins nestled in a 50-acre nature sanctuary in the Burren & Cliffs of Moher UNESCO Geopark. Their goal is simple but powerful: to educate people on climate change not by lecture, but by experience.

Cabins are powered solely by a limited supply of solar energy. There are no plugs, no wasteful appliances, and no Wi-Fi in the cabins. Water comes from harvested rainwater, filtered on-site, and its use is capped through timer showers, aerator taps, and compost toilets. These constraints gently encourage behavioural change, making energy and water conservation real and immediate. This immersive approach has proven deeply impactful. Many guests report a lasting shift in how they view energy, comfort, and consumption. They have partnered with the University of Galway on research projects focused on native species, rewilding, and climate change adaptation. 

The sanctuary itself is a living classroom, home to limestone pavement, wildflower meadows, and a disappearing turlough. Wild Cabins Kinvara celebrates those who want to live sustainably.

The Defence Forces is one of the largest energy users in the public service, making up approximately 7% of public sector emissions. 

The Defence Forces face a unique and complex challenge in achieving emissions reduction targets, due to their operational reliance on fossil fuels and the need to maintain readiness for crisis response on a contingency basis. Nevertheless, the organisation has consistently demonstrated leadership within the public sector, meeting energy consumption and efficiency targets since the baseline year and actively embracing the challenge of decarbonisation. 

This commitment reflects a clear recognition that decarbonisation is not only essential for contributing to national climate goals but also presents an opportunity to enhance energy independence, modernise infrastructure, and deliver new operational capabilities in an increasingly unpredictable global climate.

The Defence Forces place a strong emphasis on engagement with external stakeholders, both nationally and through broader international platforms. In collaboration with ESB Major Projects, the organisation will conduct a Hydrogen Power Unit trial at Lynch Camp, Kilworth in September 2025. This innovative project will demonstrate the capability to operate a military camp entirely off-grid using 100% renewable energy.

The Marine Institute is Ireland’s scientific agency responsible for supporting the sustainable development of the state’s maritime area and resources.

The Marine Institute has worked on sustainability/energy reduction since 2016. The last 8 years have seen significant results mainly through targeting behavioural change and "low hanging fruit", incurring minimal financial resourcing. Further reductions, to meet the targets, could not progress without capital investment. All the work to date has culminated in the organisation and Board being confident in the decarbonisation programme/projects. They have provided additional capital funding for decarbonisation projects, such as Solar PV, lighting, heating and BMS upgrades.

In 2024 the Research Vessel sea-time increased by 119 additional days / 4,250 nautical-miles compared to 2023. This increase in activity only resulted in a 0.7% increase in fossil CO₂ emissions, due to the alternative HVO fuel.

They are aligning with each update of the Climate Action Plan, the Climate Action Mandate and the SEAI M&R reporting, in a bid to meet the 50% & 51% targets.

An Post are Ireland’s national postal operator serving 2.47 million addresses every working day and more than 941,000 Post Office customers every week. An Post is demonstrating what true leadership in the public sector looks like; delivering Ireland’s largest alternatively fuelled fleet, decarbonising a 2 million sq ft estate, and driving innovation across every corner of their operations.

Their strategy is underpinned by a €100 million investment plan and guided by their targets. With validated progress across fleet, property, and infrastructure, they are executing a whole-organisation approach, delivering scalable solutions underpinned by strong governance. Through practical, high-impact actions such as their Solar as a Service model, HVO fuelling infrastructure, and nationwide EV network, they are also creating replicable, scalable models that support decarbonisation across the public sector.

As they work towards halving their carbon emissions by the end of 2025 and achieving net zero by 2030, they remain committed to innovation, collaboration, and long-term transformation. Building the infrastructure and mindset essential for a sustainable future.

Shelbourne Park is Dublin’s premier greyhound racing stadium, located in Ringsend Dublin 4. Greyhound Racing Ireland (GRI)’s activity exemplifies leadership, innovation, and impact in the public sector, delivered with limited resources and a strong sense of purpose. As a small organisation in the sporting and leisure sector, they have taken meaningful action to reduce emissions and energy use through practical, scalable projects such as heat pump installations, solar PV systems, and LED upgrades.

What sets them apart is their whole-organisation approach: sustainability is embedded in their culture, training, operations, and decision-making. Their robust Energy Management System, cross-functional team, and participation in national campaigns show how behaviour and accountability drive results.

GRI’s are doing more with less, working together across teams, and leading by example. Their progress proves that passion, purpose, and collaboration can drive real change in the public sector.

Balbriggan Sustainable Energy Community (SEC) aims to create an energy efficient and resilient community through knowledge sharing and learning, community-led renewable energy and nature-based solutions. The SEC was set up in 2022 and completed an Energy Master Plan in 2023.

In August 2024, they were awarded €60,300 from the Fingal Community Climate Action Fund to implement energy upgrade measures identified in their Energy Management Plan including projects for Balbriggan Meals on Wheels (solar panels, LED lights) and Balbriggan Football Club (energy efficient doors, LED lights). Other projects they have undertaken include a cargo bike locker for Balbriggan Tidy Towns, knowledge sharing projects regarding Swifts and installing swift nest boxers during retrofits and creating a biodiversity area on St Peter and Paul's Church grounds. 

They are currently working on a potential community-led solar farm and are engaging as a partner on two EU projects (EU Horizons and EU Interreg) regarding energy communities and urban spaces. 

Ecovision SEC is a citizen and community-led home insulation upgrade and retrofitting organisation which provides integrated services for homeowners and communities by leveraging funding from the SEAI and utility companies, removing of some red tape in accessing grant aid, sourcing contractors and overseeing projects on behalf of homeowners in member communities. 

They carried out Ireland’s first community-led energy plan in 2012, and in 2014 four communities came together to carry out energy efficiency works on older houses and community buildings, leveraging grants from the SEAI under the Better Energy Communities scheme. With this success, EcoVision was formally founded in 2015 and grew to include 16 communities as a not‑for‑profit cooperative (Energy Communities Tipperary Cooperative CLG, trading as EcoVision) operating in Tipperary, Clare and Limerick. 

This work has led to 1,020 homes being upgraded, along with 24 community buildings, 11 commercial facilities and they are involved in a number of EU Life projects. Ecovision has developed a template for other community energy groups through their operational framework for community-led governance and through their retrofit guides.

The Graiguenamanagh SEC (Graiguenamanagh Energy Town) works under the umbrella of Barrow Valley Community Development. Their committee was formed from a group of residents with an ambition to deliver quantifiable reductions in the level of fossil fuel consumption/ dependency in Graiguenamanagh. This SEC has set a goal to achieve 100% energy self-sufficiency for Graiguenamanagh by 2030. 

GET has been very active engaging not only with local residents but also with other SEC's to showcase the solar project it has been working on since 2020. This project is unique in Ireland in that Graiguenamanagh is the first community in Ireland that will generate, share and sell energy on a local level by using a Community Virtual Powerplant. This is an exciting innovation that will enable any community in Ireland to share and sell energy on a local level. The Graiguenamanagh project is replicable and scalable and has resulted in a significant level of interest from SEC’s across Ireland to duplicate in their communities. 

Wexford Town SEC’s mission is to reduce energy usage and reliance on fossil fuels, through a just transition to increase energy efficiency and sustainable energy sources. This is being achieved by raising awareness, empowering local communities and direct actions in Wexford Town. 

Wexford Town SEC pioneered a new way of working in deprived areas to address fuel poverty through their innovative Warmer Homes Project. They created the project in response to in-depth surveys carried out with households to identify their pressing issues, and using the research to identify and overcome challenges that impact the take up of grants that offer assistance. This project secured funding for an 'Energy Champion' to ensure that a trusted local person delivered the messaging around home energy retrofits which was deemed to be a key element to this project's success. To date this project has supported over 100 SEAI Warmer Homes Grant applications and 28 homes have completed retrofit works to date. 

The project has developed key insights they are sharing with other SECs in relation to best practice in carrying out home energy retrofits in areas of deprivation and has made a significant impact on locals understanding of energy use, tackling energy costs and energy poverty and reducing carbon footprints.

The 8th Lock Development, Dublin is a 435 residential unit scheme with 4,161 m2 of commercial space, which consists of 5 blocks over common podium and basement parking. The site is located adjacent to the Royal Canal and its cycleways, 5 minutes’ walk from Pelletstown train station and 10 minutes’ walk from Broomsbridge LUAS making the most of sustainable travel. 

The development has a district heating system with a twin pipe heat network serving each residential and commercial unit. The heat network key elements are heat pumps feeding into 24,000l thermal store. PV array is installed and provided 9% of heat pump electricity consumption. Residential and commercial units have heat interface unit (HIU), providing space heating, domestic hot water and records heat use for billing. Each residential unit has mechanical heat recovery ventilation to further reduce energy demand and provide excellent air quality for the occupants.

Given the size of the development and clients’ strict requirements, this project has delivered a first of a kind low carbon district heating system. This project stands out not only for its excellent energy performance and architectural qualities, but also for its facilities providing local employment, public realm areas, and public transport access.

Maynooth is Kildare's Decarbonising Zone (DZ) and according to data the town's residential sector is the highest source of greenhouse gas emissions. To leverage action in this area the council created the DemoHouse as an educational and communications tool.

The DemoHouse is a 1990s social housing unit that's been transformed into a living example of energy efficiency, universal design, and climate and biodiversity resilience. During its refurbishment the oil central heating and open firmware replaced by an air-to-water heat pump. The fabric retrofit involved the installation of new insulation on internal walls. Airtightness was improved through work done on the external walls and first floor ceiling, and through the replacement of double-glazed windows with triple glazing. Internal air quality was improved by the introduction of a heat recovery ventilation system, while an EV charger and PV panels further support sustainable energy within the home.

Homeowners are often baffled and confused about the steps they need to take to retrofit their homes. The DemoHouse meets this need by acting as a communications tool and venue where people can go to see, feel and get information about home energy upgrades and retrofitting.

Piltown Community Hub and Garda Station is a unique project transforming a historic landmark in Piltown, Co. Kilkenny, into a modern, energy-efficient community facility.

Originally constructed in 1825 as a Market House, later serving as Courthouse and Garda Station, the building had been vacant for years. Through collaboration between Kilkenny County Council, OPW, South East Energy Agency, An Garda Síochána, and Piltown Community Enterprise CLG, the building was sensitively restored to provide a remote working hub and operational Garda office. The energy retrofit, including insulation upgrades and a high-efficiency heat pump, significantly improved comfort and efficiency, reduced emissions, and revitalised the Main Street. 

This project demonstrates how heritage buildings can be preserved while meeting modern sustainability standards, benefitting the community socially, economically, and environmentally.

RCSI Reservoir House, Sandyford has undergone a major renovation to repurpose the building from an underused office and teaching facility to a world class dental education and oral healthcare centre. Built circa. 1996 the facility had a poor performing building envelope, fluorescent lamps throughout and relied completely on natural gas for space heating.  By implementing the protocols of IS399 Energy Efficient Design at the early stages of the design, key features to improve the energy efficiency of the building were identified. 

Through this deep energy retrofit and major renovation, the buildings operational energy emissions will reduce by more than 60%. This is an exemplar in energy efficient design; bespoke building requirements, complete building envelope upgrade, heating and hot water electrification, LED upgrade, advanced BMS and operational control.

The new RCSI School of Dentistry in Sandyford will provide critical dental education to the next generation and fill an overwhelming need for dentists in Ireland through its community dental initiative. While providing critical services in the area, this building also demonstrates what can be achieved through collaborative energy efficient design. 

The InVEST project is an innovative, user-focused approach to understanding and optimising residential solar PV in Ireland. By directly engaging over 50 households through interviews and data collection, it uncovered critical insights into motivations to influence energy behaviours, how electrification reshapes demand and how real-world performance differs from policy assumptions.

The team tackled major challenges, including inconsistent PV data formats and limited consumer access to their own energy data, developing practical solutions like user guides and bespoke data processing tools. The research has already achieved national recognition, peer-reviewed publication, and widespread public engagement through media and conferences.

The InVEST project bridges the gap between technical analysis and social impact, offering actionable recommendations for improving grid planning, BER assessments, and consumer empowerment. This project exemplifies how academic research can deliver real-world benefits, informing Ireland’s clean energy transition and shaping the future of sustainable, electrified homes in temperate climates. The bursary would be used for a campus-based living lab and a pre-installation PV estimation tool.

ISCycle is a research initiative based at the University of Limerick. The project explores short-term e-bike loans in workplace settings, and on targeting individuals often excluded from existing schemes- caregivers, people with disabilities, and those outside standard employment. Participants receive tailored e-bikes, accessories, and training, with support. The multidisciplinary team uses research methods to assess impacts on behaviour, sustainability, and equity. ISCycle also explores circular design and lifecycle management of e-bikes. 

ISCycle is an example of how behavioural science, health, and climate action can be integrated into a scalable, evidence-based solution. ISCycle studies measurable shifts in transport behaviours, away from car dependence and towards active travel. The project combines scientific rigour with strong community and employer collaboration, providing practical support to overcome barriers and drive lasting change. This project also monitors pollution exposure during commutes and studies the durability and reuse potential of e-bike components, highlighting circularity challenges in real-world settings.

ISCycle stands out not only for its environmental impact, but for its attention to equity, inclusivity, and real-world implementation. With its potential to scale and inspire similar programmes nationwide, ISCycle would use the bursary to further this spirit of innovation, sustainability, and public engagement.

The Recode project is carried out in partnership with SharedTurbine, led by Declan Collins. SharedTurbine is an Irish SME which has developed a very practical model for developing, financing, constructing and operating renewable energy projects in collaboration with local communities. 

Recode addresses one of the most urgent and overlooked challenges in Ireland’s energy transition, how to meaningfully engage communities in renewable energy development. By combining policy analysis with real-world stakeholder engagement, Recode has delivered original, actionable recommendations that address policy, financial and social barriers to community participation. 

The impact of Recode is already visible through its support for the formation of a new national community energy advocacy group; by influencing policy discussions and contributing to a live co-ownership pilot with SharedTurbine. 

Uniquely Recode brings together academic research, on-the-ground collaboration, and strategic policy engagement to provide informed, practical outcomes. Recode’s focus on equity, energy justice and citizen participation directly supports Ireland’s climate, Just Transition and EU RED II obligations. This project represents research with immediate relevance, long term impact and the potential to recode how clean energy is developed in Ireland. If awarded, the bursary would be used to build on Recode’s momentum and expand its impact.

WindLEDeRR is a pioneering project—both nationally and internationally—in addressing the urgent challenge of managing Ireland’s aging wind energy infrastructure. Ireland faces a pressing challenge as over 1,000 wind turbines are approaching the end of their life by 2030. The main research gaps targeted include the lack of site-specific dynamic modelling, structural health monitoring methodologies, understanding of fatigue life for blades, and assessment of foundation integrity for Irish wind farms. 

This project combines deep technical innovations with real-world testing, strong stakeholder collaboration, and a forward-looking vision grounded in sustainability and circular economy principles. From conducting one of the world’s first real-life Non-Destructive Testing assessments on turbine foundations, to leading Ireland’s voice in IEA Wind Task 42, and developing blade repurposing pathways, the project delivers impact that is measurable, scalable, and policy-relevant.

WindLEDeRR bridges the gap between academic research, industry needs, and policy action. It informs future regulations, empowers the next generation of engineers, and sets a benchmark for how to manage end-of-life renewable infrastructure responsibly. This is not only a research success—it is a national success story in sustainable energy. The bursary would go towards a Public Facing Knowledge Hub, National Workshops, a Policy Roundtable and outreach to rural schools and communities.

Activ8 Solar Energies, in partnership with Liffey Meats and SEAI, has deployed Ireland’s largest co-located hybrid renewable energy system at Liffey Meats' Ballyjamesduff facility. 

With over 1.51 GWh generated to date, the site has already avoided 715.27 tonnes of CO₂, equivalent to planting 978 trees. The system was designed to deliver long-term energy resilience for a high-consumption agri-food processor, setting a replicable model for industrial-scale decarbonisation across rural Ireland.

The Liffey Meats Solar Farm was driven by a need for energy resilience, decarbonisation, and operational efficiency within Ireland’s agri-food sector. As a major energy consumer, Liffey Meats sought to reduce exposure to volatile energy costs while aligning operations with Ireland’s 2030 climate targets. This business need catalysed a pioneering approach: the first fully integrated hybrid solar–wind installation in Ireland sharing a single grid connection.

It was completed on time, with zero incidents, and designed for minimal landscape and acoustic impact, earning strong local community support. The project demonstrates what’s possible when ambition, engineering, and environmental leadership align. This is not just successful renewable installation, it is a scalable, policy-shaping model for industrial decarbonisation, setting the standard for future hybrid energy projects in Ireland.

Boston Scientific is a global medical technology leader. Collaborating with the University of Galway and SEAI their goal was to identify a robust and credible energy efficiency design methodology applicable to the design and development of machines to manufacture medical devices. The Agent Commercial Coater Project involved the design and construction of a high-capacity, multi-line coating machine developed to support the manufacture of AGENT™, a drug-coated balloon (DCB) used in the treatment of coronary artery disease. 

The Agent High Capacity Coater exemplifies an innovative approach to machine design through the application of Irish Standard IS399:2021. While IS399 has traditionally been applied to enhancing the energy performance of buildings and infrastructure, Boston Scientific have extended its use by embedding it into the project methodology for all equipment engineering initiatives at their Galway site. This project marks the first full lifecycle application of energy-efficient design principles to a manufacturing machine.

A key differentiator of this project was the depth of insights generated throughout the process, which have since informed and reshaped their engineering design methodology for future energy efficient machine development.

The Agent High Capacity Coater achieved EXEED Certification in Dec 2024, the first EXEED to be awarded to a machine design.

Kitepower develops airborne wind energy systems using large, autonomous kites to generate electricity. They are currently testing and refining the system on peatland at the Airborne Wind Energy test site near Bangor Erris in County Mayo. This location allows them to validate performance in challenging terrain and weather conditions while demonstrating minimal environmental impact.

Kitepower stands out as a truly innovative and disruptive low-carbon technology, offering a completely new way to harness wind energy from high altitudes without the need for towers, foundations, or heavy infrastructure. This makes it uniquely suited for remote, off-grid, or sensitive environments like nature reserves, islands or peatland, where traditional turbines are often not welcomed or are not viable. 

The project in Mayo demonstrates not only technical innovation, but also deep community engagement, environmental sensitivity, and adaptability under real-world conditions. While many low-carbon solutions improve existing systems, Kitepower comes as a game changer—combining mobility, scalability, and minimal impact into a system with global relevance. It is a bold step toward a more inclusive, resilient, and sustainable energy future.

Tyndall National Institute is a European leader in ICT innovation, driving breakthroughs in energy, electronics, and photonics. Hosting over 600 staff from 52 nationalities, Tyndall collaborates with 200+ industry partners globally.

The institute consumes over 12GWh of energy annually for its complex research activities, operating a wide range of labs, cleanrooms, and supporting utilities. Despite this complexity Tyndall is committed to net zero energy related emissions. This ambitious programme has yielded over €1m in energy savings and cut 680 tonnes CO₂ since 2019, with further gains in recent months due to the decarbonisation of the buildings heating system.

Tyndall demonstrates ambitious, measurable leadership in decarbonisation. This has been achieved through an integrated, ISO 50001 certified energy management system, executive commitment, and a highly engaged cross functional team. Rather than focusing on isolated projects, Tyndall adopted a strategic, system level approach, applying SEAI’s EXEED process. 

Their programme shows that low carbon technologies can be utilised to decarbonise fast, effectively, and at scale under complex constraints. Tyndall’s approach is structured, data driven, and people powered. It’s a blueprint for how Ireland’s public institutions can lead the transition to a low carbon economy today, not tomorrow.

Bus Éireann is Ireland’s national bus company. In 2024 Bus Éireann launched Ireland’s first fully electric regional city bus service in Limerick. 

With a substantial €54million investment from the National Transport Authority, this project enables Bus Éireann to operate over 2.1 million emission-free kilometres annually across Limerick city services. A total of 35 charging stations, equipped with 70 charging guns, are installed at the Roxboro depot, now hosting 55 state-of-the-art double-deck battery-electric buses, supported by a significantly enhanced ESB Networks grid connection.

The project has delivered substantial environmental and service benefits, significantly enhanced the customer experience, contributing to a positive shift in public perception of bus transport, thereby encouraging modal shift and increasing passenger numbers, which are projected to exceed 5 million in 2025.

This achievement establishes a benchmark for sustainable public transport across Ireland. The insights gained from the Limerick project are informing similar upcoming initiatives in other regional cities like Cork, Galway, Dundalk, Navan, and Sligo.  This demonstrates Bus Éireann’s leadership and commitment to a broader transition to zero-emission public transport nationwide. 

Vhi has a rich history and legacy, established in 1957 as the first health insurance company in Ireland. In 2024, Vhi launched a phased transformation of its transport strategy, marking a strategic shift toward sustainable mobility. This initiative is a cornerstone of Vhi’s commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 51% by 2030 and reflects their broader ambition to embed sustainability into healthcare delivery.

The project focused on the electrification of 43% of their fleet. It achieved a 37% reduction in vehicle kilometres powered by fossil fuels in 2024, through the deployment of 47 EVs. This shift has already delivered substantial environmental and financial benefits, including an estimated 150 tonnes of CO₂ emissions avoided annually and projected cost savings of €400,000 over five years.

More than a fleet upgrade — Vhi’s activity is a blueprint for sustainable transport transformation in a complex, service-driven environment. The initiative extends beyond fleet vehicles, with surveys and carpooling encouragement forming part of a broader mobility strategy aimed at reducing commuting emissions. What sets this initiative apart is its holistic design: it combines infrastructure, behavioural change, colleague engagement, and long-term planning.

KORE Retrofit work with homeowners across Ireland to improve the energy efficiency of their homes. KORE Retrofit is a partner in the Circular Reno project, an EU-funded initiative focused on advancing circular economy practices in home renovations. 

The aim of this project is to develop a pilot for retrofitting with bio-based material, in a prefab solution for walls and rooves in residential homes in Ireland. One of the key drivers for the project is to complete as much work as possible off-site to minimise the disruption to homeowners during the works. 

This project is a standout low-carbon retrofit pilot in Ireland, combining bio-based materials with prefabricated solutions to deliver high-performance upgrades with minimal disruption. Using carbon-negative hemp insulation and low carbon EPS panels, it cuts embodied carbon, improves airtightness, and reduces onsite waste by 20%. Prefab panels installed in just two days boost speed, safety, and tenant comfort, with no need for relocation. Key results include a BER jump from D2 to A1, improved airtightness and better indoor air quality. This is a scalable, healthy, low-carbon model for the future.

SE Systems is a trusted provider of energy upgrades for homes across Ireland. In 2024, they upgraded 354 fuel-poor homes, delivering energy savings of 3.2 million kWh for vulnerable households. Their retrofit at the Lion House - Douglas property achieved exceptional BER uplift and benefited from a tailored funding strategy that accelerated the upgrade process. 

They transformed 18 dwellings for Lion House, providing a deep retrofit that significantly improved life for elderly and vulnerable residents. These homes had long relied on inefficient electric storage heating, resulting in high energy bills. SE Systems offered a One Stop Shop service, managing everything from Design and Project Coordination to Health and Safety and Grant Facilitation, ensuring a seamless and efficient upgrade process. 

The retrofit was comprehensive. Air-to-air heat pumps replaced outdated systems, solar PV panels were installed, and insulation was added to walls and attics. New high-performance windows and doors, mechanical ventilation, and BER assessments ensured the homes were energy efficient. Before the retrofit, the homes averaged an E1 BER rating; afterwards, they achieved an A1 rating.

Completed in just 47 working days, this project now stands as a benchmark for Lions Group Housing Associations across Ireland, with many planning to follow suit. 

SSE Airtricity Energy Services (SSE AES), in partnership with Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council (DLR), delivered a transformative residential retrofit project across the Glasthule apartment complex in 2024–2025.

The Glasthule buildings, originally constructed in 1909, are home to 75 one-bedroom apartments, predominantly occupied by older residents. Prior to the retrofit, the apartments were rated E1 on the BER scale, with poor thermal performance and high energy bills. The project aimed to modernise the homes to a minimum B2 rating, to enhance comfort, reduce emissions, and preserve the buildings’ historic character. This upgrade is part of DLR's strategy to prioritise energy improvements for older single-income residents in older housing units (who are typically fuel poor), aiming to boost their comfort and reduce their energy costs.

The retrofit achieved a 75% reduction in energy usage and an 85% cut in CO₂ emissions per apartment, with some units reaching an A3 BER rating. Fossil fuels were fully removed from the site for heating and cooking, delivering annual savings of over 517,000 kWh and avoiding 123,750 tonnes of carbon emissions.

This project showcases how strategic collaboration, innovative design, and community-focused delivery can drive Ireland’s decarbonisation goals while improving lives at a local level.