Malcolm Byrne
Question:517. Deputy Malcolm Byrne asked the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport the measures in place to sports clubs in transitioning to using renewable sources of energy. [62850/25]
View answerTuesday, 18 November 2025
Questions (517)
Written answers
My Department is committed to climate action and reducing emissions in line with national targets to reduce emissions by 51% by 2030 as part of the path to net zero emissions by 2050. Sports clubs have a vital role to play in the transition to a low-carbon society and my Department is expanding supports to facilitate this transition.
The Community Sport Facilities Fund (CSFF) has funded a range of sustainability measures including modifications to sports facilities to reduce energy consumption by, for instance, restricting funding for floodlighting to lower energy use LED floodlights. Under the 2023 CSFF round, applicants were encouraged to demonstrate their commitment to climate adaptation through their:
• reduction in energy usage.
• adoption of renewable energy technology.
• development of electric vehicle charging facilities.
• use of sustainable building materials.
• biodiversity protection and restoration.
• reduction in resource usage i.e. sustainable waste and water management.
• development of sustainability strategies/climate action plans.
• promotion of positive behavioural changes amongst members/users.
• active travel facilities.
In addition, as part of the 2023 CSFF application process, a guidance note was designed by my department to assist clubs in improving their energy use, biodiversity promotion, resource use and transport in and around their facilities. Applicants were also made aware of a range of funding available from the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) which may also be applied for when carrying out capital works.