The Rediscovery Centre’s Ultra-Modern Energy Upgrades

The Rediscovery Centre, the National Centre for the Circular Economy, has undergone a major green energy revamp and through the integration of renewable technology, has transformed into a state-of-the-art eco facility.

Key Achievements

• Renewable Technology Installed: Installed an air source heat pump along and 6 kW of solar PV panels
• Enhanced Visitor Experience: The comfort of the space has improved significantly, and they can now deliver events for larger numbers
• Renewable Electricity Generation: Increased onsite renewable electricity generation by 7%  

Results

• €6,300 savings per annum
• 28% reduction in total energy consumption
• 50% grant funding through SEAI

The Project

The Rediscovery Centre is a creative movement connecting people, ideas and resources for greener, low carbon living. The main building in Ballymun, North Dublin was refurbished to A2 level in 2017 but the smaller ‘reservoir’ building, previously the tanks that held the water for the 1960’s district heating system, was left undeveloped and in need of an energy efficient retrofit to bring it up to the same level of energy efficiency. 

The Rediscovery Centre partnered with Ringsend Irishtown Sustainable Energy Community (RISEC) for the 2019 SEAI communities grant application. They were able to bring their expertise in community engagement and environmental awareness to the project.  

The first step for the eco-centre was to carry out a feasibility study to assess installation costs, projected energy savings and to develop a road map for the project. The project co-ordinator, Arden Energy, prepared a detailed specification and estimated budget which was required for Board approval. This provided the necessary confidence that the project was technically and financially viable. 

The reservoir was fitted with high levels of internal insulation to reduce heat loss and heat demand. An Air source heat pump was installed to provide the required heating and energy efficient LED lights were installed to reduce electricity consumption. In addition, 6 kW of solar PV was installed to increase the level of onsite renewable electricity generation at the centre. 

On Housebuild, we have a comprehensive list of resources you will need for each of the step. Click each of them to access the resources:

1. Latest official Building Regulations: UK & Ireland
2. Building Guidelines: UK & Ireland
3. Detailed Construction Drawings: UK & Ireland
4. Cost Estimation
5. Design/Decor Inspirations
6. Potential Grants & Support Available: UK & Ireland
7. Need Professional help? Find a local pro here: UK & Ireland

*Stories & Images from SEAI. See more similar case studies of home upgrade at www.seai.ie