On Business Matters this week, Chris Ashmore has been finding out about Social Entrepreneurs Ireland, how millions of euro’s worth of energy is being wasted each year – but this could change – and also the challenges facing the construction industry due to increased oil and gas prices.
Up first, Chris has been speaking with David McCann of the Sea Collective based in Gweedore, an environmental outreach group that aims to inspire people to act positively in relation to marine biodiversity. He has benefited from a programme run by Social Entrepreneurs Ireland, and came back to Ireland having spend many years in Asia.
Following that, Chris has been finding out about potential exists to make use of surplus electricity that is being generated by renewable energy sources, such as wind. At times, particularly during the night, there can be a surplus of electricity generated by wind. Much of this is not used and wasted. However, EnergyCloud, a not-for-profit initiative, wants to use surplus renewable energy – clean electricity that would otherwise be wasted – to support households in fuel poverty. They are already working with local authorities on projects including using this surplus electricity to provide hot water for free in social housing. CEO Alan Wyley has been outlining how he would like to see things progressing.
Finally, Chris talks with Justin Molloy, Director of Western and Midland Region of the Construction Industry Federation about the implications of higher energy prices.
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
