Driving sustainable transformation in Ireland’s South East: heritage, hospitality & community energy leadership

The South East of Ireland continues to demonstrate how local ambition and strong partnerships can deliver measurable climate impact. In 2025 two standout projects supported by South East Energy Agency (SEEA), the Piltown Community Hub & Police Station and the Pembroke Hotel Kilkenny, showcased best practice in sustainable renovation, energy efficiency, and community-driven climate action. Their recognition at the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) Energy Awards, alongside two Sustainable Energy Communities (SECs) from the region, highlights the South East’s growing leadership in the national energy transition.

Revitalising a heritage landmark: Piltown community hub & police station

In Piltown, County Kilkenny, the restoration of the historic 1825 Police Station into a modern community hub has become a flagship example of conservation-led sustainable renovation. What was once a Market House and later a Courthouse and police station had fallen into disrepair after years of vacancy. Through close collaboration between SEEA, Kilkenny County Council, and Piltown Community Enterprise CLG, the building has been sensitively restored and transformed into a dual-purpose facility combining community services and remote working.

Jointly funded by Kilkenny County Council and the OPW, the project required carefully balancing heritage protection with modern energy performance. Breathable insulation systems, lime plaster, and calcium silicate materials were used to conserve the building fabric, while a high-efficiency air-to-water heat pump replaced outdated oil heating. The upgrade now delivers annual savings of 13,280 kWh, € 3 984, and 2.97 tonnes of CO₂, demonstrating that protected structures can play an active role in Ireland’s low-carbon future.

This project was recognised nationally as a finalist in the Energy in Buildings category at the SEAI Energy Awards 2025, evidence that rural towns and heritage assets can be at the forefront of Ireland’s sustainable transformation.

Business leadership in action: Pembroke Hotel Kilkenny

In Kilkenny City, the Pembroke Hotel has set a new benchmark for sustainability in the hospitality sector. Supported by SEEA, the boutique hotel completed a comprehensive five-year energy upgrade valued at € 524 422. The results speak for themselves: annual energy savings of 477,316 kWh, 107.3 tonnes of CO₂ avoided, and € 36 090 saved in energy costs.

The improvements involved installing an air handling unit, redeveloping the kitchen, switching to induction cooking, upgrading glazing and water pumps, adding smart controls and a building management system, and installing 45 solar panels on the hotel’s newly constructed fourth floor. These changes have significantly improved efficiency, comfort, and long-term sustainability for both guests and staff.

The project earned a place as a finalist in the Medium-Sized Business category at the SEAI Energy Awards 2025. Its success highlights how businesses can advance climate goals while enhancing operations and guest experience, especially when supported by expert guidance and grant management from SEEA.

Empowered communities: SEC achievements

The South East region also saw strong representation from its Sustainable Energy Communities. Wexford Town SEC won the Inspirational SEC Award for its Warmer Homes Project, which helped over 100 households access retrofit supports, improve comfort, and reduce energy bills. Graiguenamanagh Energy Town was also a finalist, recognised for Ireland’s first Community Virtual Power Plant and its ambition to reach 100% energy self-sufficiency by 2030.

These achievements reflect a wider movement of communities taking ownership of their energy future, supported by the Agency through planning, technical expertise, and capacity building.

A region stepping forward

Together, these award-winning & nominated projects illustrate the South East’s commitment to innovation, collaboration, and long-term climate action. By supporting businesses, communities, and heritage buildings alike, South East Energy Agency is helping shape a more resilient and sustainable energy future for the region.

This best practice is extracted from our publication ‘Sustainable Regions in Action‘. Discover more best practices here!