The first Annual Report on Public Sector Energy Efficiency Performance has been published by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI).

A 14% energy efficiency improvement was recorded in 2013, worth €74 million in savings to the Exchequer.

238 public bodies with a total energy spend of €588 million, reported, representing 85% of the estimated energy consumption of the public sector. The cumulative value of savings from 2009 – 2013 for these bodies is almost €250m.

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The report compiled data between 2009 – 2013 on annual energy consumption and energy efficiency performance in 2013 against 2020 targets.

Bodies reporting included the HSE, An Garda Síochána, An Post, transport organisation, City and County Councils and the Defence Forces. Efficiencies have been achieved through implementation of projects ranging from structured energy management, building and facility upgrades, retrofits, changes in transportation, better energy procurement and through behavioural change within organisations.

Dr Brian Motherway, CEO of SEAI added: "Continuous energy performance measurement is critical to achieve energy efficiency targets and drive cost savings in public bodies. SEAI provides a comprehensive support programme to assist public bodies pursuing the ambitious 33% energy efficiency target and wishing to significantly reduce their energy costs and I would encourage all to avail of it."

(CD/MH)