Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government, Phil Hogan TD, has marked the completion of a significant energy retrofit project in Kilkenny including upgrades to 224 homes, St. Canice's community centre, the Fr. McGrath centre, O'Loughlin Gaels GAA Club, City Hall and a number of businesses.

The project received substantial funding through the Better Energy programme from the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI).

Speaking at an event to mark the project in St. Canice's Community Centre, Kilkenny, today, Minister Hogan said: "Visiting the community facilities and homes this morning highlights the extent to which energy efficiency has been embraced by communities and individuals across Kilkenny.

-- Advertisement --

"The benefits are very clear in terms of lower fuel bills, more comfortable buildings, a reduction in our carbon emissions and the generation of local jobs for local communities. I want to applaud the local community, and in particular Kilkenny County Council and Carlow/Kilkenny Energy Agency, for their commitment to delivering these important works."

Also in attendance, Dr. Brian Motherway, CEO of the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland noted the contribution of the Better Energy Community scheme in transforming energy retrofitting around the country. He said: "Through the Better Energy programme, SEAI this year supported more than 80 community energy projects right around the country. This is all about making communities better and we are hugely encouraged by the creativity and enthusiasm of communities. We are delighted to be continuing this programme into 2014 and look forward to funding similar projects next year."

Collectively the Kilkenny investment amounts to €3.3m, with €2.5m coming from the Better Energy programme. The upgrade works will achieve annual energy savings of €250,000.

(CD/JP)