A Cork-based initiative that uses surplus renewable energy to provide free hot water to older residents has been honoured with a national award.

The EnergyCloud Age Friendly Initiative, a collaboration between Cork City Council, Cork City Age Friendly, and EnergyCloud Ireland, won the Environment category at the National Age Friendly Recognition and Achievement Awards. The charity, supported by Irish utility providers and wind energy companies, redirects otherwise wasted renewable energy to homes at risk of fuel poverty.

The project was conceived by the late John Mullins, former chief executive of Bord Gáis, renewable energy entrepreneur, and Age Friendly Ambassador for Cork for over a decade. Mullins also served as chair of EnergyCloud Ireland until his sudden death in April 2025.

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"This award is also a fitting legacy to the late John Mullins, whose vision, energy, and unwavering commitment to making Cork a more sustainable and inclusive city continue to inspire us," said Lord Mayor of Cork, Cllr Fergal Dennehy.

"John's belief that innovation should serve people — particularly our older citizens — lies at the heart of this initiative. His leadership and partnership with Cork City Council helped turn a simple yet powerful idea into a project that is now making a real difference in people's lives."

The pilot project, launched earlier this year, targeted privately owned homes in Cork City for residents aged over 65. Through Cork’s Age Friendly Forum, 40 households received smart Climote devices fitted to their immersion tanks, enabling surplus wind energy to power the heaters overnight. The initiative allowed older participants to manage the technology themselves, promoting a sense of empowerment while reducing household energy costs.

Cllr Dennehy added: "It also stands as a tribute to our incredible Age Friendly team, who work tirelessly to support older people across Cork. Their dedication, compassion, and creativity ensure that projects like this one not only meet practical needs but also build confidence, connection, and community among our older residents. This national recognition reflects their outstanding work and the positive impact they continue to have every day. This is an achievement that we can all be proud of."