With challenging energy efficiency targets for 2020, many thought it might not be possible; but the latest report from The Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) showed the country is well on its way to meeting targets. In its Annual Report, SEAI revealed that public bodies reduced their energy spend by €120 million. Through carefully thought out energy efficiency measures, savings made in 2014 avoided 418,000 tonnes of harmful CO2 emissions, making a huge impact on the energy landscape.

Now, Ireland is in a great position to meet its 33% energy efficiency target for 2020. At present, it’s half way to the target – despite increasing demand for public services. The report identified that four out of five public bodies have become more energy efficient in recent years – meaning Ireland is well on its way to meet its target. In fact, nearly 1,000 schools were assessed in the report with over half demonstrating they’d become more energy efficient and cut their energy bills too.

Talking about the success, Alex White TD, Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources said:

“I want to congratulate the public sector bodies and staff who have worked to get us to this important milestone of being halfway to our 2020 energy efficiency target. Their efforts mean we are saving money, cutting harmful emissions and making our public sector more efficient. With less than five years to go there is still a lot to do, but I am confident that our ambitious 33% target can be met. The forthcoming Public Sector Energy Efficiency Action Plan will give added impetus to this important work.”

Of course, there’s still plenty of work to do – especially when it comes to the transport sector. But with the positive attitude in the country and savings already being made, the SEAI is confident that all the necessary changes can be made.