Overview
St Oliver Plunkett National School in Clonmel worked with TEA on a major school energy upgrade that improved comfort, modernised building performance and brought the facility closer to current educational building standards.
The challenge
The 24-classroom school wanted to address poor building fabric and inefficient systems, but needed a clear technical plan, grant support and tightly coordinated delivery during the short summer window when works could happen with least disruption.
How TEA supported the project
TEA carried out an energy audit in early 2016, identified the main opportunities for energy savings, designed the upgrade package, secured SEAI Better Energy Communities support and managed the works process on site so the school did not have to coordinate contractors directly.
What was delivered
• Insulation of attic spaces and cavity walls
• Triple-glazed low-energy replacement windows and new air-tight external doors
• Upgraded heating controls for the existing 250 kW condensing gas boiler
• Smart low-energy lighting with daylight sensing and occupancy detection
• Full project management support through design, funding and delivery
Results and impact
The school reported a major improvement in comfort and day-to-day usability after the works. Heating demand dropped enough that, in early October, the building only needed heating for about half an hour in the mornings. Staff also adjusted the heating setpoint down to about 18.5 to 19 degrees because the upgraded building retained warmth far better than before.
Client voice
“The school looks like a new-build yet it was built in 1982. I think we have future proofed our building. We are certainly in the 21st century now.”
Planning a similar project? TEA can help assess the opportunity, shape the right solution, and support delivery from concept through implementation.