Carlow’s VISUAL Arts Centre and the George Bernard Shaw Theatre is to benefit from a €1.5 million energy and decarbonisation upgrade after contracts for the project were signed.
Following a competitive procurement process, Aramark Energy were appointed as the lead design team for the project which will involve the removal of its current gas-fired heating system. The building’s insulation and ventilation systems will be upgraded while and solar photovoltaic (PV) panels will also be installed.
The works are part funded by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) under the Pathfinder programme and by Carlow County Council.
Speaking at the contract signing, Cathaoirleach of Carlow, Cllr Ken Murnane, welcomed the investment, noting the wider benefits for the community and the county.
“This project shows how Local Government can lead by example in addressing climate change while protecting and enhancing our cultural infrastructure,” said Carlow County Council Cathaoirleach, Cllr Ken Murnane (FF).
“The energy upgrades at VISUAL and the George Bernard Shaw Theatre will ensure these important venues remain sustainable, future-proofed and accessible for generations to come.”
When making her final address to the Council last November, outgoing VISUAL Chief Executive Emma Lucy O’Brien said that the centre’s operating costs had risen by almost 25 per cent last year, coming in at €1 million. Utilities inflation was cited as a significant factor in the increase in operating costs.
County Council Chief Executive Coilín O’Reilly described the upgrade works as “a model project,” demonstrating how energy-efficient technologies can be implemented as practical alternatives to traditional fossil fuel systems.
“The project highlights what can be achieved using proven low-carbon solutions, while delivering lasting environmental and operational benefits. This decarbonisation project is a central element of the Council’s broader climate action commitments and supports our strategic objective within our Climate Action Plan to decarbonise our operations.
“By moving away from traditional fossil fuel heating systems the project makes a meaningful contribution towards our goal of reducing as far as possible, fossil fuel use across all Council-owned, non-domestic buildings by 2030.”
Niall Scully, VISUAL’S Interim CEO, stated: “I am delighted that the SEAI Pathfinder Programme is supporting this major energy upgrade. It demonstrates the commitment to the arts in Carlow and will significantly reduce our energy usage and emissions, while ensuring that the local community and visitors to Carlow can continue to enjoy a comfortable, welcoming, and sustainable arts centre.”
Cllr Fergal Browne (FG) welcomed the development and spoke to KCLR News about what this project will mean for the facility.
