By ORS
Energy Master Plans (EMP) are methods for Sustainable Energy Communities to understand and identify their current situation and projected destination in relation to energy use. EMPs can be used as road maps for communities to achieve significant savings on energy expenditure and waste, focusing on a targeted approach. Communities often have a very good grasp of their wish list for energy savings and renewable energy use, but a lack of time and technical expertise can inhibit progression.
To overcome these obstacles, independent energy consultants complete Energy Master Plans on the community’s behalf, looking at the local area and identifying historical energy has historically been spent. A baseline of energy use can then be calculated to establish a target reduction of fossil fuel derived energy and uptake in renewable energy use for communities. A key aspect of the EMP is a fabric first approach where energy efficiency upgrades are identified. These include improving insulation, draft proofing or window and door upgrades. These upgrades not only result in a reduction in energy wastage but also in healthier, more comfortable homes for all members of the community.
Each community is unique, and therefore each plan needs to look at the local situation, natural resources and the local appetite for specific renewable uptakes. Consultants ensure there is stakeholder engagement throughout the process and establish a sense of ownership for all interested members of the community.
The EMP reviews the community’s energy profile to identify energy-saving opportunities for homes, local businesses, schools, and community centres. A number of options for reducing energy spend and utilising sustainable energy in smart ways is presented to the community in the form of a Register of Opportunities. The document highlights the suggested retrofit options for a number of domestic and non-domestic buildings in the area and can be used as a roadmap to reduce the energy spend. Other unique opportunities are also explored, such as a community cooperative that can drive sustainability within the community or a community-owned renewable energy generation site. The recent commitments from government to have an increasing presence from communities in the upcoming Renewable Energy Support Schemes (RESS) is an excellent pathway for SECs to develop these locally owned sources of energy.
In support of communities, the SEAI offer 100% grant funding to facilitate the recruitment of an expert to complete an EMP. This grant ranges from €10,000 to €25,000 depending on the size of the community and its current energy spend. SEAI County Mentors in your local area help fill out the application form and lodge it with SEAI. After the community group is issued a grant agreement, a consultant is hired to begin the process. Our technical experts work with communities from concept and engagement to the planning stage and guide SEC communities on the next steps in realising their energy ambitions.
Sustainable Energy Communities
ORS is currently working with a wide range of SECs across Ireland. These range from small rural villages to larger towns alongside islands and peninsulas. Our team has supported Clane, Kilcullen, Monasterevin and Maynooth SECs through Kildare County Council. We are also currently working alongside Ballinasloe and WEST SEC. We have recently launched the completed Energy Master Plan for the Inishowen Development Partnership. The SECs we work with are at various stages, from the launch of their Energy Master Plan to initial engagement with the community to site inspection and energy audits.
“Inishowen Development Partnership (IDP) is delighted with the end result of our Energy Master Plan, developed and designed by ORS. From its conception, the ORS team liaised with our SEC Team on a regular basis throughout the EMP development stages and was always available to answer our queries. Their expertise and advice was central to achieving our aim to shape the EMP for our local area” – Mary McCallion Community Links Officer, Inishowen Development Partnership.
If you want to know more about Sustainable Energy Communities, watch this webinar. Changing our energy use creates one of the biggest impacts on sustainability and the environment. Community energy projects mean warmer, healthier homes and community buildings. It improves the quality of life, especially for the vulnerable in the community. These projects can bring the community together and contribute to bigger goals such as Tidy Towns, green tourism, and eco-congregation activities. If your community is interested in hearing more about Energy Master Plans, please contact the ORS Energy Management Team at [email protected] or +353 15242060.
About ORS
ORS is a prominent Irish multidisciplinary building consultancy celebrating 30 years in business. The firm offers design, planning and management advice that is supported by expert guidance in energy efficiency. We have a team of highly skilled designers, consulting engineers, planners, scientists and surveyors. Our mission is to design and build a better world by delivering sustainable solutions for our clients and creating a supportive workplace for our people.
About the SEAI
The Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) was established as Ireland’s national energy authority under the Sustainable Energy Act 2002. SEAI works with householders, businesses, communities and government to create a cleaner energy future.
