Limerick schools to benefit next year from climate action scheme
The scheme is designed to allow schools to carry out small-scale and medium-scale building works that will improve and upgrade existing school buildings
MINISTER for Education and Youth, Hildegarde Naughton, has announced an €80 million investment for projects across the country.
Twelve Limerick projects were granted approval under the 2027 Climate Action Summer Works Scheme.
The Climate Action Summer Works Scheme is a key element of the department’s programme of investment in the school estate.
It supports schools in addressing building condition needs while delivering climate action measures that improve energy efficiency, reduce carbon emissions and lower operational costs.
The scheme is designed to allow schools to carry out small-scale and medium-scale building works that will improve and upgrade existing school buildings.
Such works are typically done over a summer period during school holiday periods.
Schools can now undertake measures such as insulation upgrades, LED lighting installation, EV charger provision, bike rack facilities to support active travel and other climate focused works alongside traditional maintenance.
The projects approved under this tranche were assessed and prioritised by the department based on schools' individual needs and the urgency of the works required.
A particular focus this year was supporting projects in special schools.
The twelve successful Limerick applicants were: SN Sheanain, St John's Convent, St James NS, SN Naomh Padraig, SN Gleann Gcreabhar, St Brigid’s NS, St Josephs, Limerick City East Educate Together NS, Thomond Primary School, Scoil Naomh Muire Eas Géitine, Limerick Community Special School and Desmond College.
Minister Naughton said: “This €80 million investment will support schools in Limerick and across the country to improve the quality, sustainability and energy efficiency of their buildings, creating better learning and working environments for students and staff.
“The Climate Action Summer Works Scheme supports practical improvements that make a real difference in schools, including upgrading windows and doors, enhancing insulation, modernising heating systems, installing LED lighting and carrying out other works that reduce energy use and carbon emissions.
“This investment not only helps schools address important building needs but also contributes to our wider climate objectives by improving energy performance and reducing operating costs over time.
“A key strength of the scheme is its multi-annual approach. Schools whose applications were not approved in an initial tranche remain eligible for consideration in future rounds. This provides greater certainty and supporting long-term planning for climate action and energy efficiency projects.”
In total, the approvals include 229 projects covering roof works, electrical and mechanical improvements, window replacement, toilet upgrades, external environment improvements, energy efficiency measures and essential maintenance.