Laois County Council recently hosted a two-day ManagEnergy Expert Mission on 25–26 November. The event brought together local and international experts to share knowledge, showcase innovative projects, and explore solutions for climate action and sustainability in the Midlands.
The mission was organised in collaboration with the Midlands Energy Agency (MEA) and the North-West Croatia Regional Energy and Climate Agency (REGEA), highlighting the Midlands’ leadership in tackling climate challenges and fostering a low-carbon future.
Day One: Innovation in Action at Mount Lucas
The first day took place at the Mount Lucas National Construction Centre, a hub for training and innovation in sustainable construction. Attendees included members of the Midlands Energy Agency Working Group, who collaborate regularly to progress regional climate action.
Highlights included:
- A presentation by Sarah Morgan from the Midlands Regional Enterprise Plan, outlining strategies to drive sustainability and innovation across the Midlands.
- A tour of the NZEB and Retrofitting Training Facility, guided by John Kelly, showcasing advancements in sustainable construction methods.
- A visit to the Circular Bioeconomy Aquaculture Initiative, led by the Technological University of Shannon, which demonstrates how agri-food waste streams are being transformed into sustainable feeds and food ingredients.
- An update on the Portlaoise Low Carbon Town project by Paul McLoughlin, which is creating a model for urban sustainability.
- Insights into the upcoming National MMC Demonstration Park, presented by Padraig Boland, which will advance modern methods of construction to meet Ireland’s green building goals.
Day Two: Digital Innovation and Collaboration
The second day focused on digital innovation and collaboration. Participants toured the Portlaoise Low Carbon Town project, seeing first-hand the efforts to create a more sustainable and energy-efficient community.
The day concluded at The Cube – Low Carbon Centre of Excellence, where:
- Miljenko Sedlar from REGEA introduced the Zagreb Digital Twin, an advanced tool for energy planning and climate adaptation, demonstrating how technology can support decision-making for resilient communities.
- Stakeholders inlcuding Midland Energy Agency Working Group engaged in discussions about integrating climate action into governance and planning to build a sustainable future.
Collaboration Driving Results
Speaking about the event, Suzanne Dempsey, Climate Action Coordinator for Laois County Council and Energy Officer for MEA, said:
“This mission highlights how collaboration can drive real progress in tackling climate challenges. By learning from innovative projects like the Circular Bioeconomy Initiative and the Zagreb Digital Twin, we’re ensuring that sustainability is embedded into our plans for the future.”
Looking Ahead
The mission concluded with a focus on developing skills for the future, particularly in areas like Zero Energy Buildings, Passive House Standards, and modern construction methods. The event reaffirmed Laois County Council’s commitment to leading the Midlands towards a sustainable, low-carbon future.
For more information on Laois County Council’s climate action initiatives, visit www.laois.ie.