Connacht GAA SEC in east Mayo announced as winner at 20th SEAI Energy Awards
The Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) has announced the winners of the 2023 SEAI Energy Awards, with Connacht GAA SEC taking the prize for Inspirational Sustainable Energy Community.
Based in Bekan, east Mayo, the Connacht GAA Sustainable Energy Community (SEC) was established in 2019 with a mission to understand and optimise energy usage.
Initially focusing on comprehending utility bills and educating staff on daily energy efficiency practices, the community later formulated an ambitious 10-year energy masterplan for the centre.
At the heart of Connacht GAA's complex is the world's largest air dome – a groundbreaking project powered entirely by solar energy that attracts over 150,000 annual visitors. Notably, this air dome has achieved a milestone by exporting solar energy, holding the first category B export license in Ireland.
Connacht GAA's commitment extends beyond facilities, positioning the organisation as integral contributors to the newly launched GAA Green Club programme. Through active participation, the programme provides crucial support in messaging, awareness and education to over 2,000 clubs and their members.
The journey initiated by Connacht GAA's SEC has spurred transformative change, progressing from the successful implementation of various projects to instigating a cultural shift and assuming a leadership role within the community, extending well beyond the borders of Connacht.
As we celebrate the 20th SEAI Awards ceremony in 2023, it's noteworthy that since the inaugural event in 2003, there have been a remarkable 2,100 applicants and 190 award winners. Collectively, these initiatives have achieved an impressive €650 million in energy savings, showcasing the substantial impact and ongoing commitment of organisations like Connacht GAA to sustainable energy practices.
This year, there were 114 applications to the SEAI Awards and 40 finalists who collectively reduced energy consumption by 16% saving €50 million in energy spend. The renewable energy produced by the 2023 entrants is equivalent to powering over 400,000 homes per year.
Hosted by journalist Sinead Ryan, this year’s ceremony saw a total of 13 awards presented to individuals, businesses, communities and public sector organisations in recognition of their commitment and dedication to sustainable energy and climate action.
The Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications, Eamon Ryan, said: “I want to congratulate the entrants and winners of this year’s SEAI Energy Awards for their commitment to sustainable energy and their role in fighting for a cleaner energy future for us all.
“The finalists – indeed all the applicants this year – give an insight into the technical capacity, the innovation, the drive, and the vision that is powering an energy transformation right across the country, in businesses and in communities.
“The calibre of individuals and organisations that have taken part in this prestigious event over the past 20 years gives me great confidence when it comes to meeting our ambitious but achievable climate targets.”
The CEO of SEAI, William Walsh, added: “Over the past 20 years we have seen incredible innovation and momentum in sustainable energy. And today, at the 20th SEAI Energy Awards, we are celebrating the achievements of entrants and their contribution to a sustainable energy future.
“We are here to recognise those leading the energy revolution in their respective sectors, providing exemplary leadership in reducing Ireland’s dependence on fossil fuels.”
Other 2023 SEAI Energy Award winners include: Ahascragh Distillers Ltd (Innovative Deployment of Renewable Energy); Lawler Sustainability (Research and Innovation); Lidl (Large Business); Ballykilcavan Brewing Company (Small and Medium Business); Inland Fisheries Ireland (Leadership in public sector decarbonisation and energy efficiency); University of Galway (Energy in Buildings); Bus Éireann (Transport); SSE Airtricity Energy Services/Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council (Residential Energy Upgrades); and Symphony Energy (Sustainability via Digital Technologies in Construction and Buildings).
For full details on all winning projects, visit www.seai.ie.