Change the way your communities think about energy
Change the way your communities think about energy
The Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) is calling on community groups across Ireland to join the dedicated ‘Sustainable Energy Community’ (SEC) Network. The aim of the Network is to catalyse and support a national movement of SECs operating in every part of the country.
What is a Sustainable Energy Community
A Sustainable Energy Community (SEC) is a community in which everyone works together to develop a sustainable energy system. To do so, they aim as far as possible to be energy efficient, to use renewable energy where feasible and to develop decentralised energy supplies.
A SEC can include all the different energy users in the community including homes, sports clubs, community centres, churches and businesses. Community groups are now being encouraged to join the SEC Network to help build capacity and share skills across communities.
Why become a SEC?
- Achieve financial and energy savings
- Improve public wellbeing and comfort from energy efficient buildings
- Boost local employment
- Promote community building through partnership approach
- Build capacity and leverage funding
- Contribute to national energy reduction targets
Suggestions on how to apply and build a SEC
The first step is to join the SEC Network by downloading your application form from the SEAI website. Within your community then identify potential stakeholders that would be interested in working on the application and scheme. Talk to your SEAI Regional Mentor, who will be assigned to you upon application. The Regional Mentor will guide you through the application process, identifying areas within your community that require an energy upgrade. It is also highly recommended to attend a site visit to an existing project on the scheme and meet the committee involved in their application to better understand the process.
ORS and the SEAI
ORS as Regional Mentors for the Midlands, has been working closely with the SEAI over the past year on this scheme and network. We are actively encouraging community groups in Westmeath, Longford, Offaly and Laois, should they have a vision or idea for an energy efficient project, to join the SEC Network.
Should you wish to learn more about the scheme or have questions on what is involved, please contact our Midlands Regional Mentor, Claire Cable.