Solar Ireland 2024 Newsletter: Session Spotlight – Successful Community Engagement

Focus: Session 4A – Successful Community Engagement

Chair: David Maguire , BNRG , a trailblazer in the renewable energy sector with over 30 years of experience.

Session Overview: Community support is crucial to the success of any solar energy project. In Session 4A, Successful Community Engagement, attendees will learn how to effectively engage with communities to gain their trust and support, ensuring smooth project development. From case studies to expert insights, this session will explore best practices in building partnerships that benefit both the community and project developers. Topics will include how to address concerns, foster trust, and create positive relationships that reduce opposition and facilitate faster approvals.

This session will feature a presentation by Michael Quirk , a pioneering Cork farmer who is leading by example in Ireland's solar revolution. He recently transformed part of his farm into a solar powerhouse and has first-hand experience in community engagement. Michael's presentation will be followed by a panel discussion with experts from the solar sector, government, and community organisations. This is an essential session for those looking to deepen their understanding of community engagement strategies in the context of solar project development.

Key Details:

• Chair: David Maguire
• Presentation: Michael Quirk
• Panel Discussion:
• Aoife Sedgwick , EDF Renewables UK & Ireland
• Gillian Baker , Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI)
• Grace Curran , Neoen
• Paul O'Neill , Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications

Session Description:

Community engagement can be a game changer for solar projects. Establishing a strong relationship with local communities not only leads to faster approvals but also reduces opposition and fosters long-term partnerships. Attendees will hear from industry leaders and community advocates about strategies to build trust, communicate effectively, and address community concerns. This session is packed with valuable takeaways for anyone involved in project development.

SEAI Community Grants For those looking to support their community energy projects, the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) offers Community Grants. These grants are available to communities working on energy upgrades and renewable energy installations, including solar PV systems. By supporting local projects, the SEAI’s Community Grants program encourages collaboration between communities, businesses, and public sector bodies to create more sustainable, energy-efficient futures.

?? Learn more about SEAI’s Community Grants here: SEAI Community Grants

Why Attend?

• Gain insights into successful community engagement strategies from experienced leaders.
• Learn how to build strong community relationships that benefit both the solar project and the community.
• Explore real-world case studies of successful community involvement in solar projects.
• Discover how SEAI’s Community Grants can support energy initiatives in your local area.

Register today for Solar Ireland 2024 and join us for Session 4A to discover how effective community engagement can accelerate project approvals and lead to stronger relationships with local stakeholders. Don’t miss the chance to hear from key industry players and community leaders!

We look forward to welcome you!

The ISEA Team