ATU launches LEAP Project to retrofit homes for a more sustainable future
Atlantic Technological University (ATU) has officially launched the Local Energy Agencies in Peripheral Regions (LEAP) project, marking a significant step towards driving climate action in Ireland's North and West regions. The launch event, held at the Carrick-on-Shannon Business Campus on Thursday, February 15th, brought together experts and stakeholders from across the energy sector to discuss strategies for energy retrofitting and achieving Ireland's Climate Action Plan targets.
Funded by a €1.7 million EU LIFE grant, the LEAP project represents a landmark initiative to retrofit homes across the Northwest and West regions.
ATU serves as the Project Lead, partnering with County Councils of Sligo, Leitrim, and Donegal, Údarás na Gaeltachta, and Aran Island Energy Co-op. Together, the partners have established three Local Energy Agencies, paving the way for coordinated efforts in advancing energy efficiency and sustainability initiatives.
Dr Orla Flynn, President of ATU, welcomed attendees stating the university's commitment to sustainability and collaboration in addressing pressing environmental challenges.
"The LEAP project, funded through the EU LIFE programme, brings experts from this field together and drives positive change in our communities. Sustainability, research and engagement are a key focus of our forthcoming Strategic Plan and the LEAP project will help communities right across the region, from Donegal to Galway, to retrofit buildings and move towards a more sustainable and cleaner future. Congratulations to the ATU Contract Research Unit for their commitment and engagement, leading to the success of this project," she said.
The event featured insightful discussions from experts in energy retrofitting, including representatives from Mayo Sligo Leitrim Education & Training Board (MSL ETB), Sligo County Council, Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI), and Tipperary Energy Agency. A panel discussion in the afternoon provided a platform for stakeholders to engage in dialogue on Ireland's ambitious target of upgrading 500,000 homes to BER B2 by 2030.
Attendees had the opportunity to explore stands where organisations such as Clann Credo, Retrofit Ready, MSL ETB, and SEAI showcased their initiatives and resources for promoting energy efficiency and sustainability. The event highlighted the importance of collaboration among relevant stakeholders in driving climate action and achieving shared goals.
Lisa Vaughan, CEO Tipperary Energy Agency outlined how the European Energy Efficiency Directive (EED) underlines the key role of regional and local energy agencies in implementing the related provisions. She explained that "energy agencies are acknowledged as key stakeholders in priorities such as supporting regional and local authorities in rolling out energy efficiency measures".