Generating more sustainable energy in Clare
The Sustainable Energy Communities (SEC) Programme is a nationwide initiative which aims to support Ireland’s transition to a more energy efficient, sustainable future. CLDC continues to grow the SEC programme across Co. Clare. We now mentor multiple registered communities across Clare – from Shannon to Ballyvaughan on the programme, helping cut bills, go green and build resilience.
A Sustainable Energy Community is any group of people who come together to improve how energy is used for the benefit of their community. They look at how we can use energy in a sustainable, holistic way. A SEC can include a range of different energy users in the community such as homeowners, sports clubs, community centres, local businesses and churches.
In this way, a sustainable energy community connects sustainable energy, local economic development and public wellbeing. Communities are provided with mentoring and technical support at every stage, so there is no need for communities to have any prior energy knowledge or experience.
Why are sustainable energy communities right for Clare?
Sustainable Energy Communities (SEC) empower groups to lead local energy projects with SEAI support.
- Save money: Reduce bills via efficiency upgrades and renewables.
- Access grants: Funding for solar, heat pumps, retrofits, and more.
- Boost resilience: Reduce fossil fuel reliance; prepare for net-zero goals.
- Clare momentum: Multiple communities registered and growing.
SEC in 3 Simple Steps
Follow SEAI’s proven path—CLDC provides free guidance at every stage.
- Learn: Assess your area’s energy use with free audits and workshops.
- Plan: Develop your Energy Master Plan (EMP)—a 5-year roadmap.
- Do: Launch projects: solar co-ops, LED lighting, community heat networks.
Stuck on step 1? Book a free consultation today.
Once you register, Denise will be in touch to offer support and guidance. The main priority is that the group gets community buy-in.
Benefits At A Glance
| For Communities | For Residents |
|---|---|
| Lead local projects | Lower energy bills |
| SEAI funding access | Cleaner air, jobs |
| Expert CLDC support | Healthier homes |
Listen - Clare FM Morning Focus Interview
Start or Join a Local Sustainable Energy Community
- Form a group: 10 residents or less or a community org — we’ll help start.
- Join existing: Contact Denise to learn which SEC group exists in your area.
- Nominate area: Contact Denise with your townland and she’ll help you register your community for a free energy audit.
- Primary Contact: Denise O’Brien, SEC Coordinator
- Email: dobrien@cldc.ie | Phone: 065 686 8686
- You can also register here on the SEAI website
Once established, an SEC group can apply for 100% funding for a consultant to develop an Energy Master Plan (EMP). The funding ranges from €10k to €20k depending on population size/energy spend. The Plan includes a baseline report of the community’s energy usage, a number of community energy audits and a recommended list of actions for community energy projects.
Multiple communities across Clare have already completed Energy Master Plans and are looking at identifying suitable projects and funding sources as part of their ‘Do’ phase. Mentoring support is provided through all stages.
Denise is available to meet with and guide groups in setting up a Sustainable Energy Community and applying for SEAI funding, so please get in touch if your community is interested. In-person and online information sessions are organised on a regular basis. To register your community as an SEC or for more information visit Sustainable Energy Communities | SEAI.
Ballyhoura Development CLG coordinates the SEC Programme in the Mid and South West, in partnership with key partners in Co Cork, Co Kerry, Co Clare, Co Tipperary and Co Limerick, supported by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI). We have set up a useful regional webpage that contains all you need to know about setting up a Sustainable Energy Community in your area. Click on the link for details.
CLDC
Staff Contacts
Denise O'Brien
SEC Community Mentor
dobrien@cldc.ie
087 7980347