Libraries across the South East launch free drop-in energy clinics

The Community Energy Hub is a reliable, independent, and trusted resource that helps households, community groups, and businesses better understand their energy use and access grants and energy-saving information.

The four libraries in the South East that have been chosen to pilot the free resource are Loughboy Library in Kilkenny, Waterford Central Library, Carlow County Library, and Wexford Town Library. Following the initial pilot phase, there are hopes to expand the service to all libraries in the South East and beyond.

The initiative, launched by the South East Energy Agency (SEEA) in partnership with library services in the South East, includes free monthly energy drop-in clinics. Everyone is invited to drop in for expert advice and to embark on an energy upgrade journey.

"The partnership with the libraries is incredibly important," explained project coordinator and communications officer with the South East Energy Agency, Michael Deen.

"Libraries are a central part of our communities and play a pivotal role in raising awareness of environmental issues. The Community Energy Hub is an additional resource our libraries now have, providing meaningful ways we can make our homes cheaper to run, more comfortable and better for the environment."

The low-carbon website includes user-friendly tools, such as the Home Energy Grant Finder, to help people identify specific grants applicable to their homes. Other features include an energy jargon buster, energy-saving tips and a guide to understanding energy bills with realistic examples from Ireland's energy providers. The Energy Upgrade Journey guide helps break down energy usage and provides the steps anyone can take to make big savings on their energy bills.

"The Community Energy Hub will provide independent and trustworthy information to make well-informed decisions on how to reduce energy bills and reduce environmental impact.

"It's not always about home retrofits, which can be expensive; the resources and tools on the Community Energy Hub will guide users through a step-by-step process from the small to the big changes we can make to make a real positive impact," Mr Deen concluded.

The library offers a range of support services, including CODEMA Home Energy Kits to monitor energy usage at home, available on loan with a library card. The SEEA will provide additional kits as part of the initiative. Library staff are on hand to help people, especially those who are less tech-savvy, navigate the new Community Energy Hub.

Anyone wishing to embark on a sustainable journey can avail of a free one-to-one consultation with an energy engineer at the local library or call in to use the new money-saving resource.