Warmer, Cheaper Homes: Triple SEC Retrofitting Event Empowers Communities

The “Warmer, Cheaper Homes” Triple SEC Retrofitting Event on 19 October marked a milestone in the Citizen-Led Renovation (CLR) initiative, bringing together community members, stakeholders, and experts to celebrate the completion of Phase I. With a strong focus on empowering local communities to improve energy efficiency through retrofitting, the event showcased innovative tools, practical demonstrations, and peer-to-peer learning opportunities, creating an inspiring atmosphere of collaboration and action.

Purpose and Objectives

The event aimed to:

1. Celebrate the achievements of the CLR initiative in fostering community-led energy transformation.
2. Launch a series of retrofitting guidebooks and “How-To Guides” to simplify the retrofitting process for homeowners and renters.
3. Educate and inspire attendees to adopt energy-efficient practices through demonstrations, workshops, and discussions.
4. Strengthen community networks and encourage shared learning among neighbourhoods.

Key Highlights and Activities

1. “Ask a Local” Interactive Sessions

Attendees engaged with Cabra, Stoneybatter, and Phibsboro volunteers, who shared personal stories of their retrofitting journeys. These conversations provided firsthand insights into the challenges, solutions, and benefits of retrofitting, fostering a unique peer-to-peer learning environment.

2. Retrofitting Room Prototype

Aine Reilly led an innovative hands-on demonstration of a retrofitting room prototype, showcasing efficient home heating solutions. This interactive feature offered participants a clear understanding of how retrofitting measures can transform their homes, making them more energy-efficient and comfortable.

3. Launch of Retrofitting Guidebooks and “How-To Guides”

A cornerstone of the event was unveiling user-friendly resources designed to make retrofitting accessible to everyone. These comprehensive guidebooks and step-by-step manuals addressed key aspects of retrofitting, providing practical advice tailored to homeowners and renters alike. Context Design Studio introduced the retrofitting guide that addresses renters' unique challenges in adopting energy efficiency measures. This specialised resource was widely praised for its inclusive approach to retrofitting, ensuring all community members have the necessary tools to take action.

4. Grant Application Support

Recognising the complexities of applying for retrofitting grants, a dedicated team of volunteers, including Gerard Doherty, Ger O’Halloran, and Dr. Gerry Wardell, offered step-by-step guidance. Attendees received personalised support to navigate the application process, empowering them to secure project funding.

5. Community Table Displays

Cabra, Stoneybatter, and Phibsboro showcased their retrofitting initiatives at dedicated tables. Pull-up banners, informational materials, and volunteer engagement highlighted the impressive work done by these communities, inspiring others to follow suit.

6. Practical Skills Workshop

The Spark HQ hosted a hands-on workshop where participants learned basic retrofitting techniques. This engaging session gave attendees the knowledge and confidence to implement energy-efficient improvements in their homes.

Impact and Feedback

The event drew over 40 participants, including local community leaders, university representatives, politicians, and residents. Through a mix of practical demonstrations, expert guidance, and peer-to-peer interactions, attendees left feeling informed, inspired, and empowered to take actionable steps toward energy efficiency.

Key takeaways included:

• A greater understanding of retrofitting benefits, from cost savings to environmental impact.
• Access to comprehensive resources that simplify the retrofitting process.
• Enhanced community networks and a renewed commitment to collaborative energy transformation.

Attendees expressed high levels of enthusiasm for the event, with many showing interest in future workshops, follow-up events, and continued support from the CLR initiative.

Event Logistics and Setup

The event was meticulously organised, featuring:

• Five community display tables showcasing retrofitting efforts.
• Pull-up banners and informational materials for each community.
• Audio-visual equipment for presentations and demonstrations.
• Feedback forms and sign-in sheets to capture attendee insights and suggestions.

Looking Ahead

The Triple SEC Retrofitting Event demonstrated the power of community-led action in driving energy efficiency and sustainability. As the CLR initiative moves into its next phase, it will continue prioritising empowering local communities with the knowledge, resources, and support needed to create warmer, cheaper, and more sustainable homes.