The Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) conference celebrated a decade of community-led climate action and highlighted the achievements of Ireland's 1,000-strong Sustainable Energy Community (SEC) network.
Hosted by comedian Colm Regan, SEAI Sustainable Energy Communities National Gathering 2025: Celebrating 10 Years of Local Energy Action took place at the weekend.
Addressing the event, chair of the Climate Change Advisory Council Marie Donnelly said, “Sustainable Energy Communities have huge potential to not just address climate goals, but to bring people together as we transition to a climate resilient, biodiversity-rich, environmentally sustainable and climate neutral economy.
"The work done on the ground and the stories of change are what will drive Ireland forward towards a healthier and more sustainable future.”
Among the projects celebrated over the weekend were the Aran Islands Energy Co-op SEC, which was one of the first communities to join the SEAI Sustainable Energy Community network in 2015 and among the first to complete an Energy Master Plan.
The community is working towards becoming self-sufficient in locally generated renewable energy and eliminating dependence on oil, coal, and gas.
SEAI has supported numerous home energy upgrades on the islands and hosted Ireland’s first electric vehicle trial there.
William Walsh, CEO of SEAI, said: “All across Ireland, we are seeing inspiring communities come together to play their part in reducing emissions and supporting our national journey to net-zero.
"I’m delighted to be in Portlaoise for the SEAI Sustainable Energy Communities National Gathering 2025, to highlight and celebrate the positive change that can be achieved when communities unite around a shared vision.
"Climate action must happen at every level—through Government policy, local initiatives, and individual choices. Communities have a unique and powerful role in encouraging positive action, engaging their community, and supporting the shift to more sustainable ways of heating our homes, travelling, and using energy.
"Ireland’s Climate Action Plan sets an ambitious target of growing our network to 1,500 Sustainable Energy Communities by 2030.
"This grassroots momentum is essential to our transition to a cleaner, more secure energy future.”
There are now over 1,000 SECs of varying sizes across the country.
The event was also attended by many of the local and national enablers of SECs, including the Department of Climate, Energy & the Environment, Local Authority Climate Action teams and other community organisations.
(Pic: Supplied)
