Energy Efficiency

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 15 November 2018

Thursday, 15 November 2018

Questions (184)

Catherine Murphy

Question:

184. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs if her Department is part of the public sector energy reporting programme; if so, the percentage of improvement in energy efficiency to date that has been achieved; the way in which this was achieved; if her Department noted a decrease in energy efficiency in view of the National Energy Efficiency Action Plan for energy efficiency targets; if targets will be met by the 2020 deadline; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [47585/18]

Written answers

Minister for Children and Youth Affairs

My Department is fully engaged in the Public Sector Energy Reporting Programme. I am happy to report that my Department has improved its energy efficiency performance at the end of 2017 by 47%. This is above the target set at 33% by the Public Sector Energy Efficiency Strategy 2020.

During 2017, my Department reduced its energy consumption by putting procedures in place such as enabling automatic computer shut down in the evenings, reducing lighting in areas of the building with reduced footfall, the removal of personal heaters and desk fans, the central heating system set on a timer for 'exception periods' for dates when the building was closed on weekends and Bank Holidays. My Department also provided energy awareness information sessions to staff.

I expect my Department's energy efficiency performance to further improve as a result of the move in early 2018 to Miesian Plaza. Miesian Plaza is designed for high energy efficiency and is expected to achieve LEED Platinum accreditation. LEED, (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) is the most widely used green building rating system in the world.