Ireland pilots free hot water for 40 social homes using surplus renewable electricity
By Eve
Clare County Council, EnergyCloud and FuturEnergy Ireland are installing smart controls in 40 social housing units in Broadford and Scariff to heat water automatically when the national grid has excess renewable power. The devices turn on immersion heaters during surplus periods, which occur roughly one night in three, allowing tenants to heat a full tank at no charge.
Why it matters
The pilot demonstrates demand side response technology that can absorb renewable oversupply, a capability relevant to grid operators and energy storage planners. It also shows how local authorities can reduce energy costs for social housing tenants through automated load shifting.
Source
- Original title
- “Ireland will give 40 social homes free hot water from excess renewable energy”
- Published
- 7 October 2026
- Updated
- 8 October 2026
In this story
- Topic
- Grid & Energy
- Place
- Ireland
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