LOCAL communities and construction professionals across Galway are being offered free training and information sessions on energy efficiency upgrades courtesy of a retrofit roadshow travelling to three locations over the coming weeks.
Galway City and County Councils, in collaboration with Mount Lucas Construction Training Campus, are facilitating the innovative Retrofitting Rig on its visits to Shantalla, Ballinasloe and the University of Galway Campus.
Members of the public, students, construction professionals and community groups are encouraged to visit the Solar PV powered rig, which is equipped with cutting-edge technology including working heat pump and ventilation system, making it entirely self-sufficient. Its design lets participants see first-hand how emerging technologies are installed and function in real-world settings.
Liam Conneally, Chief Executive of Galway County Council commented, “This initiative brings the possibilities of warmer more comfortable homes to life for the people of Galway and aligns with our Climate Action Plan goals of low-carbon, resilient and sustainable energy and buildings, which enhance the well-being of our community”.
“The mobile training unit provides a unique opportunity for members of the local community to access accredited training and practical demonstrations right on their doorstep,” said Leonard Cleary, Chief Executive of Galway City Council. “By bringing this resource to multiple locations over the next few weeks, we aim to engage as many people as possible in understanding and implementing retrofitting measures.”
According to Rebecca Mooney, Climate Action Officer with Galway County Council, “Improving building energy efficiency is critical to addressing climate change, and initiatives like this not only equip people with essential skills but also demonstrate the practical benefits of retrofitting in increasing home comfort and reducing carbon emissions. Galway City and County Councils are committed to fostering innovation and collaboration as part of our work towards achieving our climate targets”.
She continued, “This extended visit reflects the success of last year’s one-week program in Westside and underscores the importance of making retrofitting expertise accessible to all. Each location will offer open tours, drop-in clinics, and opportunities to engage directly with experts about energy efficiency”.
The retrofit rig, developed by the Laois Offaly Education and Training Board and the National Construction Training Campus at Mount Lucas, offers a hands-on approach to training on nearly zero-energy building standards and retrofitting techniques. The initiative directly brings accredited training and knowledge-sharing to local communities, empowering individuals, homeowners, and professionals to contribute to Galway’s decarbonisation goals. The training will include NZEB Fundamental Awareness, Retrofit for Households, and the Retrofit for Schools Programme, which expert tutors will deliver from the Laois Offaly Educational Training Board.
The Retrofit Rig Tour of Galway will travel to Shantalla Community Centre (17-21 February), Ballinasloe Enterprise Hub, Society St, (24-28 February) and the University of Galway Campus (1-7 March).
Spaces for formal training sessions are limited, and early registration is recommended. For more information or to book a training slot, please get in touch with climate@galwaycity.ie for events in Shantalla and the University and for Ballinasloe please contact Denise Feeney, Community Climate Action Officer at climateaction@galwaycoco.ie.
