Tullamore SEC launches Solar PV community initiative to reduce energy costs
Local residents are invited to attend an information evening about the initiative in the Tullamore Court Hotel on Wednesday, 22 July
Team Tullamore Sustainable Energy Community (SEC) are set to launch their Solar PV Meitheal, a community-led renewable energy initiative that brings neighbours together to install solar PV panels at reduced costs.
It is supported by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) through the Sustainable Energy Communities Programme, along with Team Tullamore SEC and Offaly County Council.
The initiative harnesses collective buying power to make home solar PV systems more accessible and affordable for local residents.
Residents from across Tullamore are invited to attend an information evening on Wednesday, 22 July, at 7:30pm in the Tullamore Court Hotel to learn more about the initiative and how to get involved.
The event will outline the Solar PV Meitheal process, explain how collective purchasing can maximise savings alongside SEAI grant funding, and provide an opportunity to engage directly with representatives from Team Tullamore SEC and Offaly County Council.
This collaborative project will empower households across Tullamore to reduce their electricity bills while also lowering carbon emissions.
By pooling local demand, the Meitheal approach helps to reduce installation costs, delivering significant savings compared to individual installations.
Participating homeowners will also benefit from access to shared resources, expert guidance and available SEAI grant supports, making the transition to clean, renewable energy easier while contributing to local climate action goals.
The initiative will combat electricity prices which have risen by 80% since 2019 with the average cost of electricity now at approximately 36c per kWh.
This programme will offer participants the opportunity to generate their own electricity with solar PV and lock in energy costs from as little as 6c per kWh for up to 20 years which will help to protect households from future price increases.
Team Tullamore SEC plan to work as a collective with the direct support of the SEAI mentor to negotiate with local installers and bring energy prices down for all those involved.
The information evening on Wednesday, July 22 at 7:30pm in the Tullamore Court Hotel will illustrate to local residents how they can produce their own energy and reduce energy costs by being part of Tullamore SEC Solar PV Meitheal.