What would make the biggest difference to energy use in Shannon?
For some households, the priority is the cost of heating. For others, it is knowing where to start with energy improvements. Community groups and small businesses have their own buildings, bills and questions to consider.
A new community energy planning process in Shannon will bring those needs together — and local people are being asked to help shape it.
There was a full house on Wednesday, 14 October, for the launch of work on the Shannon Town Sustainable Energy Community’s Energy Master Plan. Colm Garvey of Clare Energy Agency facilitated the session, which marked a positive start to the project.
The Sustainable Energy Community programme is supported by Clare Local Development Company (CLDC) and the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI). It helps communities work together to identify opportunities to improve energy efficiency, reduce costs and explore renewable energy.
Have your say
The immediate ask is straightforward: complete the community energy survey.
Responses will help inform the Energy Master Plan, so it is important to hear from people across the community.
Residents can also book a one-to-one Energy Clinic appointment. Sixteen appointments were made available following the launch, with bookings already under way.
A plan that reflects Shannon
Shannon has a wide mix of homes, community buildings and small businesses. To reflect that, the project is being approached in two parts, with a second Sustainable Energy Community planned in the coming weeks.
Further community engagement is also being developed. This will include practical energy information sessions and a session on the Warmer Homes Scheme. Details will be shared as arrangements are confirmed.
A starting point for other Clare communities
The work in Shannon begins with a local conversation: what are people’s energy needs, and what could be improved?
That is a useful starting point for other towns and communities in Clare too. A community energy plan can bring individual concerns into a shared discussion and help identify opportunities for local action. Several towns and villages around the county are already engaging with CLDC Sustainable Energy Communities, looking at where their own unique community needs are and how SEC can be deployed for tailored solutions.
For now, the priority in Shannon is participation. Completing the survey or attending a clinic will help ensure that the plan reflects the people and buildings it is intended to serve.
Visit the Shannon SEC project hub for project information and resources.