Age Friendly pilot project for Cork city launched

A new EnergyCloud pilot project in Cork city has been launched by Jerry Buttimer, minister of state for charities, gaeltacht and the islands, and rural transport.

A collaboration between not-for-profit EnergyCloud Ireland, Cork City Council and the Cork Age Friendly City programme, the project will enable older people in Cork to receive free tanks of hot water via the EnergyCloud Ireland smart device.

The device, which is installed on the immersion tank and powered through Wi-Fi or a sim card, uses surplus renewable energy to power the immersion heater.

Mr Buttimer said that over 40 devices have been installed for older people across the city already, saying: “I support this initiative fully.

“I think it’s an excellent example of what can happen when public bodies, the private sector, and community organisations all pull in the same direction.”

Valerie O’Sullivan, the council’s chief executive, said that they are working across directorates on this project, which connects new technologies with the aims of the Climate Action Plan.

Lord Mayor councillor Dan Boyle welcomed the pilot, saying: “This innovative project matches local, national and global goals.

“By using surplus renewable energy and smart technology to help older people across the city who may be at risk of energy poverty, this pilot will reduce their energy costs and carbon footprint.”

The project was also welcomed by Age Friendly ambassador for Cork city, John Mullins, who said: “This collaboration between Cork City Council and EnergyCloud Ireland highlights Cork city Age Friendly programme’s continued commitment to making Cork a great place to grow old.”

The programme marks EneryCloud’s first project in Cork city, their first project aimed solely at over 65s and will also see them deliver their first installations in privately owned homes.

At the launch event, Mr Buttimer was joined by representatives from Cork City Council across the community, climate action and housing teams, representatives of Age Friendly Ireland, HSE and Age Friendly recipients of the first 20 EnergyCloud smart devices in Cork.