A new project in Galway aims to provide 150 homes with free hot water using surplus renewable energy. The EnergyCloud project, launched in collaboration with Amazon Web Services (AWS), represents a significant step in green energy policies and renewable energy utilization.
Innovative Solar Energy Solutions
Minister Alan Dillon, Minister of State at the Department of Housing, Local Government, and Heritage, launched the EnergyCloud project last week. This initiative equips over 150 Galway homes with an EnergyCloud-enabled smart device. This device uses surplus renewable energy to heat immersion tanks, which would otherwise go to waste.
Supporting Green Energy Policies
Speaking at the launch at Gusta Gaoithe wind farm in Ardderroo, Minister Dillon highlighted the project’s ambition. He stated, “This collaboration between EnergyCloud Ireland and AWS is ambitious and creative. It aligns with the Climate Action Plan’s goals of maximizing renewable electricity efficiency and reducing fossil fuel dependence.”
As smart energy solutions for renewable energy generation, storage, and sharing develop, more homes will benefit from excess renewable energy. This initiative reduces energy costs and carbon footprints. Minister Dillon noted that significant dispatched down renewable energy could be used to heat hot water tanks, emphasizing the importance of initiatives like EnergyCloud.
Renewable Energy Investment and Community Support
Neil Morris, country lead for Ireland at AWS, expressed AWS’s commitment to local communities. He said, “AWS has invested in Ireland for over 15 years. This collaboration with EnergyCloud Ireland highlights our commitment to positive social impact.”
Representatives from Wind Energy Ireland, AWS, EnergyCloud Ireland, and other agencies attended the event. Noel Cunniffe, CEO of Wind Energy Ireland, stated, “EnergyCloud’s vision is to use otherwise wasted wind energy to provide hot water for homes in energy poverty. As Ireland aims for 80% of electricity from renewable sources by 2030, initiatives like EnergyCloud maximize the opportunity to use energy when the wind blows and help those in fuel poverty.”
Economic and Environmental Benefits
John Mullins, chairperson of EnergyCloud Ireland, concluded, “AWS’s support allows EnergyCloud to support families throughout Galway. Access to free renewable energy saves money and reduces fossil fuel use. This project is a win-win-win solution for surplus energy management.”
According to EirGrid, 5480 GWh of renewable wind energy was dispatched down between 2018 and 2023. This energy could have heated 1.825 billion hot water tanks, with a retail value of €1.592 billion. The EnergyCloud project exemplifies innovative solar technology and energy storage developments, offering a sustainable solution to excess energy.
Source：advertiser.ie
