Jerry Buttimer, Minister of State for Charities, Gaeltacht and the Islands & Rural Transport launches a new EnergyCloud pilot project in Cork City.
08/04/2025
Jerry Buttimer, Minister of State for Charities, Gaeltacht and the Islands & Rural Transport launches a new EnergyCloud pilot project in Cork City.
A collaboration between not-for-profit EnergyCloud Ireland, Cork City Council and the Cork Age Friendly City programme, the project will enable older people in Cork to receive free tanks of hot water via the EnergyCloud Ireland smart device. The device, which is installed on the immersion tank and powered through Wi-Fi or a sim card, uses surplus renewable energy to power the immersion heater. Over 40 devices have been installed for older people across the city.
Commenting on the launch, Minister of State Jerry Buttimer said: “I support this initiative fully. I think it’s an excellent example of what can happen when public bodies, the private sector, and community organisations all pull in the same direction.”
Lord Mayor Cllr. Dan Boyle said: "This innovative project matches local, national and global goals. By using surplus renewable energy and smart technology to help older people across the city who may be at risk of energy poverty, this pilot will reduce their energy costs and carbon footprint."
Valerie O’Sullivan, Chief Executive of Cork City Council said: “Cork City Council is working across directorates on this innovative pilot which connects new technologies with the aims of our Climate Action Plan. The pilot aligns with Cork City Council’s goals in supporting all Corkonians as we move towards a climate neutral economy.”
Age Friendly Ambassador for Cork City, John Mullins, said: “This collaboration between Cork City Council and EnergyCloud Ireland highlights Cork City Age Friendly Programme’s continued commitment to making Cork a great place to grow old. This pilot supports the use of innovative technology solutions that are simple to use, delivering practical benefits and a significant social impact for older people in Cork.”
Alan Wyley, CEO of EnergyCloud Ireland added: “EnergyCloud is delighted to be launching this project with Age Friendly Ireland and Cork City Council. This project represents several important firsts for EnergyCloud. It is our first project in Cork City, our first project aimed solely at over 65's and will also deliver our first installations in privately owned homes.”
At the launch event, Minister of State Jerry Buttimer was joined by representatives from Cork City Council across the Community, Climate Action and Housing teams, representatives of Age Friendly Ireland, HSE and Age Friendly recipients of the first 20 EnergyCloud smart devices in Cork.