MINISTER for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation Richard Bruton visited a Northside senior citizens’ complex last week to see first-hand the results of an energy upgrade project.
Lismeen Grove, Coolock is part of an €880,000 Better Energy Communities project which received €360,000 in funding from the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI)
Wall and attic insulation, and high efficiency heating and lighting upgrades were completed in 114 senior citizens’ apartments, including 23 at the Lismeen Grove complex.
As a result of the work, the residents are now benefiting from more comfortable homes and a healthier living environment.
Minister Bruton said: “I was delighted to visit Lismeen Grove in Coolock and meet Mrs Clare Farnan along with some of the other residents who have benefitted from the programme which included insulation, heating and lighting upgrades.
“This project has been a great boost to the residents of Lismeen Grove, as well as (those in) 39 apartments at St John’s Court, Donneycarney and 20 at Castlekevin, Artane, as well as others.
“I would like to commend the project partners and SEAI for their work here in Lismeen Grove and the wider community.”
Minister Bruton said the comfort and health benefits of the upgrades are tangible.
“The economic benefits are also clear with over 3,000 jobs supported every year through the Better Energy programme,” he added.
The project was led by Retrofit Energy Ireland Ltd (REIL) for Enprova and was a partnership between Dublin Port, Dublin City Council (DCC) and housing charity Respond. Dublin Port undertook upgrade works at their maintenance and terminal facilities.
SEAI interim chief executive William Walsh said the programme has supported upgrades to over 12,000 homes and buildings.
“These projects improve the efficiency, comfort and running costs of local buildings and in the process create jobs and help the environment,” said Mr Walsh.
“We want to continue to spread these results across the country and show new communities how they too can take part and benefit.”
For further information on the Better Energy Communities initiative and how to apply for grants visit www.seai.ie/Grants/Better_Energy_Communities/