Carrigaline, Co. Cork, Ireland
csec
Carrigaline Energy Master Plan
About
Home » About

About Carrigaline Tidy Towns Sustainable Energy Community (SEC)

In January 2021, the Carrigaline Tidy Towns Sustainable Energy Community (SEC), a voluntary group, was established under the aegis of Carrigaline Tidy Towns. The SEC is part of a twenty-six counties network. The network is coordinated by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI), with the aim of encouraging and supporting the involvement of communities in the transition to a low-carbon future. SEAI offers guidance and mentoring as well as providing access to grant support.

Carrigaline Tidy Towns Sustainable Energy Community (SEC), focuses on sustainable, environmentally-friendly initiatives to enhance the town’s energy efficiency, reduce emissions, and foster community engagement in climate-conscious projects. Their work spans a variety of local efforts aimed at beautifying and greening public spaces, reducing waste, and promoting energy-saving practices. Key initiatives include:

    1. Energy and Emissions Reduction: The Carrigaline Tidy Towns group has been instrumental in developing an Energy Master Plan, aiming to cut energy consumption and CO₂ emissions in the community. This involves engaging residents and local businesses in upgrading building energy efficiency, installing renewable energy systems, and adopting low-emission transportation alternatives.

    1. Community Education and Engagement: The group prioritizes public outreach, organizing workshops, and events to promote sustainability practices. These efforts encourage energy-saving behavior, educate on climate issues, and provide residents with tools, like Home Energy Kits, to assess and reduce their household energy use.

    1. Local Partnerships and Grants: Through partnerships with organizations like SEAI and leveraging grants, Carrigaline Tidy Towns facilitates various projects. This includes community solar PV installations, electric bike schemes, and energy audits for local sports clubs and community centers to optimize energy use and reduce costs Beautification Projects**: In addition to energy initiatives, Carrigaline Tidy Towns enhances public spaces by maintaining green areas, reducing litter, and planting trees. These efforts not only beautify the town but also contribute to carbon offsetting, support biodiversity, and improve residents' quality of life.

Through these initiatives, Carrigaline Tidy Towns contributes to the town's sustainable development, setting an example in environmental stewardship and community-led energy transformation. Their comprehensive approach aims to meet Ireland’s climate targets while fostering a vibrant, sustainable, and resilient community .