NEWS
A project aiming to convert households into eco-friendly ‘super homes’, using distributed energy resources (DERs) such as solar panels, battery storage, heat pumps and electric vehicles, is underway at the International Energy Research Centre (IERC). Based at Tyndall National Institute in Cork, IERC is leading the ‘SuHSI’ (Super Home Smart Inverter for Irish Electricity Network) project, with funding from the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI). The project is targeting an augmented integration of DERs with the existing power grid, to help homeowners reduce their carbon footprint and energy bills and contribute to the overall sustainability of the electricity network. Smart inverters and advanced controls, including AI energy management systems, will be used to integrate DERs into the grid. Dr Sandipan Patra, Lead Researcher and Principal Investigator, said, “Our aim is to create a network of citizens who are committed to reducing their carbon footprint and promoting distributed energy resources. “This project provides resources and tools to assist individuals in becoming energy-active citizens and network operators in managing energy resources more efficiently.” www.ierc.ie IERC project seeks to transform existing stock into sustainable super homes
Acquisition aims to create one of Ireland’s largest renewables firms
Two Irish businesses specialising in renewables are to combine services and leadership teams in a bid to expand their footprint across the island of Ireland. NRG Panel, a Monaghan-based installer of solar panels and heat pumps, is acquiring JFW Renewables in Galway for an unspecified sum. The two firms collectively employ 125 people and have serviced more than 3,500 new customers over the past year. NRG was founded in 2015 and has grown rapidly since then, securing backing from Irish private equity firm Melior Equity Partners in 2023. JFW was founded in 2021, and provides residential and business customers with solar PV, battery and EV charging services. Dual bases are to be maintained in Monaghan and Galway, with the combined companies planning to expand
L-R: Conor Foley, CEO, NRG Panel, Gearoid Whelan, Managing Director, JFW Renewables, and Jonathan Dalton, Managing Director, Melior.
their operating footprint and renewable energy services with the support of Melior. NRG CEO Conor Foley will manage the overall operation, supported by a leadership team representing both businesses. JFW founder Gearoid Whelan will retain a significant equity stake in the group and join the leadership team as CRO. www.nrgpanel.ie
NIE Networks seeks 30 engineers as part of £3bn infrastructure investment
NIE Networks launched a major recruitment drive in April aimed at attracting 30 engineers during 2024 to support its infrastructure investment plans. The electricity transmission and distribution network announced its Great Big Recruitment Drive as part of plans to invest £3bn in Northern Ireland’s electricity infrastructure over the next seven years. All roles will be involved in preparing and designing the network to facilitate a net zero future and span positions for newly-qualified candidates to more experienced engineering jobs. Alex Houston, Network Operations
NIE Networks is expanding its team alongside a major infrastructure investment.
Cork-based IERC is leading a project aimed at integrating DERs into the power grid.
inclusive environment.” Applications closed on May 6 for the roles, which will be based in offices across Northern Ireland, including Danesfort, Campsie, Omagh, Craigavon, Ballymena and Dargan. NIE Networks has Silver Diversity Mark accreditation and is an accredited Investors in People Gold organisation. www.nienetworks.co.uk/careers
Manager for NIE Networks, said, “We are embarking on a once-in-a-generation overhaul of the electricity network as we look towards a de-carbonised future. “NIE Networks is a great employer; they invest heavily in their people to allow them to reach their full potential and, along with great benefits, it’s a supportive and
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