Competitive energy provider Energia and Irish lighting firm eLight are aiming to halve the lighting bill of 1,000 schools across Ireland and reduce their carbon footprint through the replacement of their current lighting with energy efficient LED lighting.

The major new €10m scheme called 'Project Green Classroom' will see Energia and eLight upgrade the entire lighting system in participating schools to energy efficient LEDs.

The reduction in energy consumption from the LED lighting will mean that participating schools will benefit from savings of at least 60% on their lighting and lighting maintenance costs.

Crucially, there is no capital outlay required by participating schools as 'Project Green Classroom' is being funded under a 'Pay As You Save' approach. This means that the cost of the upgrade work is paid for by the savings accrued through the installation of the energy efficient lighting and the associated reduction in energy usage.

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The project aims to invest an average of €10,000 upgrading more than 1,000 schools to energy efficient LED lighting over the next five years.

Ian McKenna, eLight said: "By choosing to participate in 'Project Green Classroom' schools will reduce their lighting costs by at least 60% - that's a very significant saving. Crucially, there is absolutely no capital investment required by the schools. All of the costs are repaid through the schools' regular electricity bills."

Cormac Mannion, Energy Services Manager, Energia commented: "As the supplier of electricity to over two-thirds of Irish schools, Energia is delighted to be using its expertise in the area of energy efficiency to benefit schools throughout Ireland.

"We have developed considerable expertise in the area of energy efficiency and energy efficiency training. We have helped to reduce many organisations costs and increase many businesses' competitiveness by giving them the knowledge and tools that help them save money by reducing their energy consumption."

Energia has a 28% market share of the Irish business electricity and gas market supplying the energy needs of over 65,000 business customers. In addition to renewable assets, the company also operates a 750MW gas fired power station in north Dublin.

Energia has also entered the residential electricity and gas market with a great new offer for consumers nationwide. Energia's offer will guarantee consumers savings of up to 15% off standard rates for both gas and electricity.

(CD)