Making a difference
ESB Energy Services lends a hand
ESB ENERGY SERVICES
ESB Energy Services was established in 2008 as a newly formed business within ESB, aimed at engendering greater levels of energy awareness among consumers. As a new business it is primarily concerned with researching, planning and delivering programmes that support Ireland's target of reducing emissions by 20% by 2020. It's been a hectic year for the 17 members of the team, particularly with two major initiatives launched i.e. Home Insulation Scheme (HIS) and the HALO Programme.
Padraig McManus, Chief Executive and Brid Horan, Executive Director Energy Solutions, together with Tony Carroll, Sustainability manager and members of the Energy Solutions Senior management team were invited to a presentation on the achievements and successes of this dynamic team.
Home Insulation Scheme (HIS) has operated with the support of the Department of Social and Family Affairs and runs in tandem with SEI's Warmer Homes Scheme. It targets areas of the country where SEI does not have a strong presence. The HIS is offered to home owners over 65 who are in receipt of the free fuel allowance. to date almost 3,000 have applied and 2,000 homes have been insulated across Kilkenny, Laois, offaly, Carlow and east Galway, with a further 1,000 targeted for completion before year end. The initiative has brought huge benefits in cluding a reduction in fuel bills and warmer homes.
HALO (Home Energy Efficiency Programme) is a free survey currently being offered to all homeowners. Consumers have the opportunity to take advantage of advice and recommendations on how to make their home more energy efficient. the Programme promotes the uptake of SEI's home Energy Savings Scheme grants and it enables people to make informed choices and decisions. more than 10,000 homeowners have already signed up and its success is greatly capturing the imagination of the public. the recent features on national radio and About the House programme, has gained it much acclaim and recognition.
Both the HALO and HIS Programmes have made a huge contribution to the raising of awareness for the need to improve the energy efficiency of our homes. In addition to assisting in reductions to carbon emissions and reducing fuel bills for home owners, it has stimulated employment in this area. ESB's Energy Services will generate up to 250 jobs over the coming few years and there are already more than 100 hALo surveyors and up to 20 full-time installers on the HIS.
It's onwards and upwards for Energy Services into 2010.
