May 22, 2026

Lahinch Seaworld’s €3m Green Energy Overhaul Showcased at National CAP Network LEADER Workshop

Lahinch Seaworld and Leisure Centre’s landmark renewable energy upgrade has been highlighted on the national stage at the third CAP Network Ireland 2023–2027 LEADER Capacity Building Workshop in Tullamore.

Speaking at the event, Clare Local Development Company (CLDC) LEADER Coordinator Siobhán Normoyle set out how a community-owned social enterprise on the west Clare coast transformed one of the county’s most energy-intensive buildings into a low‑carbon, A3‑rated facility.

CLDC LEADER Coordinator Siobhan Normoyle addressing delegates at CAP Network Ireland conference.
Panel discussion in Tullamore.

In her presentation, Ms Normoyle explained that the €3 million project replaced oil-based heating with a 79 kW ground‑source heat pump connected to 15 deep geothermal boreholes, backed up by biomass boilers, and added a 123 kWp solar PV array with battery storage.

These measures have delivered an estimated 220 tonnes of CO₂ savings annually, a 76% reduction in thermal energy use and a dramatic drop in overall energy consumption, securing the future of a vital community hub serving a catchment of around 20,000 people.

“For us, this wasn’t just an upgrade – it was about securing the long-term viability of a critical community asset for future generations,” Ms Normoyle told delegates in Tullamore. “Lahinch Seaworld shows what can happen when community leadership, LEADER funding and technical expertise come together. It’s now a living example of how rural facilities can cut emissions, cut costs and still deliver essential services to local people.”

For us, this wasn’t just an upgrade – it was about securing the long-term viability of a critical community asset for future generations

SIOBHAN NORMOYLE – cldc leader coordinator

She added that the Lahinch Seaworld Renewable Energy Project is already being seen as a model that other leisure centres, sports halls and community facilities across rural Ireland can adapt as they face rising energy costs and tightening climate targets.

Want to learn more about LEADER projects – large and small scale – go to LEADER – CLDC | Clare Local Development Company