Taoiseach Enda Kenny has welcomed investment of €3.48 million for three Mayo projects as part of Better Energy Communities funding allocations. The funding will ensure local homes, community and commercial facilities will become more energy efficient thanks to government funding. The projects include a wide range of upgrades to fabric (insulation ), heating systems, lighting and solar heating. At least three categories of local projects here in Mayo will receive direct funding of €1,794,928 from the Better Energy Communities (BEC ) scheme administered by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland.
The first project is being led by Retrofit Energy Ireland and includes 20 fuel poor domestic homes in Erris. The project received funding of €622,635 allowing for a total investment of €1,253,325. Retrofit Energy Ireland are also involved in the second project which involves a new collaboration of the hospitality sector and Mount Falcon Estate between Foxford and Ballina; this project received funding of €776,148 providing a total investment of €1,473,464. The third project is a combination of Clar ICH and the Western Development Commission. The non-domestic elements of their project include Allergan, Brackloon Community Centre, Belderrig Community Centre, Westport Sports Complex, Moy Valley Resources and Mayo Sligo Mart. Funding for the third project was €396,145 and results in an total investment of €756,748.
The Taoiseach said: “This funding will hugely improve the energy efficiency of homes and public facilities right across our communities in Mayo. The Better Energy Communities scheme aims to make the buildings we use in our daily lives more comfortable, healthier and cheaper to heat and light. Using less energy, and using it more efficiently, is the most cost effective and accessible way for us all to take action on climate change. We need to take ownership of our energy usage locally and this is a huge step in the Government’s national goal to upgrade every low-performing building in Ireland to decarbonise Ireland’s energy system and the economy.”
