Sustainable energy launch for east Mayo community
Members of the public, local businesses and community organisations are being invited to attend the official launch of the Ballyhaunis Sustainable Energy Community (SEC), taking place on Tuesday, May 19 (tomorrow), in Ballyhaunis Community Hall from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
The free public information event will provide practical advice on reducing home and business energy costs, improving energy efficiency and accessing available SEAI retrofit grants.
Data highlighted at the last Census and by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) demonstrates the significant energy challenges facing households in Ballyhaunis. The average annual household spend on energy locally is €3,600, while almost one in two homes (49%) do not yet have a BER certificate. Less than 1% of homes currently have a heat pump installed, while 96% have substandard windows and 58% have poor heating controls. The figures also show that 74% of homes could improve their wall insulation and 56% have inadequate roof insulation. For homes that have been assessed, the average BER rating locally is D2.
The Ballyhaunis SEC was established in 2022 to help improve energy use locally for the benefit of the wider community. The group is made up of local volunteers, community representatives and concerned citizens, and operates in partnership with the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI).
As part of the SEC programme, an Energy Master Plan has now been completed for the Ballyhaunis area by Celtic Dynamics Engineering Ltd. The plan included detailed energy audits of 10 representative homes, six community buildings and two local SMEs. The findings identified major opportunities for cost savings, energy upgrades and grant-supported retrofits across the community.
Speaking ahead of the launch, Councillor Alma Gallagher said: “We have all seen how expensive it has become to heat our homes and businesses in recent years. When the average household in Ballyhaunis is spending €3,600 annually on energy, it is clear that rising fuel costs are putting huge pressure on families, individuals and local businesses alike.”
Councillor Gallagher added: “The good news is that there are practical measures people can take to significantly reduce these costs while also making their homes warmer, healthier and more energy efficient. There are also substantial grants and supports available, but many people are unsure where to start or what they may qualify for.
“This event is about giving people clear information, expert advice and confidence to explore the options available to them. Whether someone is interested in insulation upgrades, solar panels, heat pumps or simply lowering their energy bills, there will be something useful for everyone on the night.”
The event will feature presentations from SEAI County Mentor Dr. Orla Nic Suibhne, Marcus MacDonnacha of Celtic Dynamics Engineering Ltd., and David Doherty of Switch to Solar, who will outline available grant schemes, retrofit options and energy-saving technologies.