An innovative energy-efficient DemoHouse has officially been opened in Maynooth, County Kildare.

The DemoHouse, which was opened as part of Kildare County Council's Decarbonising Zone initiative, was built in the early 1990s and has undergone a comprehensive energy upgrade and retrofit.

The improvements include new insulation on internal walls, enhanced airtightness, and the replacement of double-glazed windows with triple glazing.

In addition to energy efficiency, the house features a decentralised heat recovery ventilation system to improve air quality, an air-to-water heat pump, low-temperature radiators, an EV charger, and PV panels on the roof. These elements contribute to a reduced carbon energy system and provide a healthier living environment for residents. The house is designed with universal accessibility in mind, featuring level access doorways, accessible bathroom, height adjustable countertop, contrasting wall colours for visual impairment, and a stair lift for mobility issues. The refurbishment also prioritised the circular economy, reusing existing products and materials wherever possible.

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Speaking at the official opening, the Cathaoirleach of the County of Kildare, Cllr Kevin Duffy, said: "This is just one of the achievements of Kildare County Council in our ongoing efforts to promote sustainability and environmental stewardship. Today, we celebrate the completion of an innovative energy-efficient demo house in Maynooth, a project that demonstrates our commitment to creating a greener and more sustainable future."

The garden of the DemoHouse includes pollinator-friendly planting, a pond to attract wildlife, and sustainable drainage systems to manage surface water on-site. These measures aim to create a sustainable and biodiverse environment that benefits both residents and the local ecosystem.

Kildare County Council has invited the public to visit the DemoHouse and learn more about the benefits of energy-efficient living. The DemoHouse will be available to the public to view on Thursday, March 13, from 10am – 1pm and each Thursday morning from 10am – 1pm thereafter.

The viewing will be by appointment only with booking available on the DemoHouse portal.