The grant, awarded at 75% funding support, will deliver a comprehensive solar energy system at the Centre, including 60 Solar PV panels, a modern battery storage array, and high efficiency hybrid inverters. This project is expected to dramatically reduce the Centre’s energy costs, strengthen long term financial stability, and position Silvermines as a model for rural sustainability and community driven climate action.
A Landmark Day for Silvermines
The contract signing took place at Silvermines Community Centre, attended by representatives from NTDC LEADER, Tipperary County Council, and the Centre’s board of directors.
Those present included:
• Patrick Killeen, NTDC LEADER Programme
• Mary McLoughney, Tipperary County Council
• Odhrán O’Brien, Committee Member, Silvermines Community Centre CLG
• Patrick Hennessy, Director, Silvermines Community Centre CLG
• Martin Quinn, Director, Silvermines Community Centre CLG
North Tipperary Development Company (NTDC), which delivers the LEADER Programme in the region, has played a central role in supporting the project from its earliest stages.
The signing represents the culmination of over a year of planning, technical assessments, energy modelling, governance work, and funding preparation undertaken by the Centre’s leadership team.
A Renewable Energy System Designed for Long Term Impact
The approved installation includes:
• 60 high efficiency Solar PV panels
• Battery storage system to maximise energy self consumption
• Hybrid inverters for smart energy management
• Full installation, testing, and certification
The installation will be carried out by Wizer Energy Ltd, a specialist renewable energy contractor with extensive experience delivering community scale solar projects across Ireland.
Once operational, the system will generate a substantial portion of the Centre’s annual electricity needs. This will reduce reliance on the national grid, protect the organisation from future energy price volatility, and free up resources for community programmes, events, and services.
The upgrade also supports the Centre’s long term development plan, enabling more activities, extended opening hours, and improved sustainability across all operations.
NTDC LEADER Supporting Rural Development
The NTDC LEADER Programme continues to play a vital role in strengthening rural communities across Tipperary. By funding renewable energy infrastructure, NTDC LEADER is helping local organisations reduce costs, improve resilience, and contribute to Ireland’s climate action goals.
The Silvermines project was highlighted as a strong example of community driven development — a project initiated, planned, and delivered by Patrick Hennessy and Martin Quinn, whose leadership ensured the project met all technical, financial, and governance requirements.
Strengthening Community Life in Silvermines
Silvermines Community Centre has become a central hub for local groups, classes, events, and social supports. Rising energy costs in recent years have placed pressure on the Centre’s ability to maintain and expand services.
This renewable energy project will:
• Reduce annual electricity expenditure
• Improve comfort and reliability for users
• Support future expansion and refurbishment
• Increase the Centre’s capacity to host events
• Enhance long term financial sustainability
For a village with a strong tradition of volunteerism and community involvement, the project is a major step toward securing the Centre’s future.
Leadership and Collaboration
Directors Patrick Hennessy and Martin Quinn, supported by Odhrán O’Brien, Committee Member, Silvermines Community Centre CLG, have led the governance, compliance, and technical planning required to bring the project to contract stage. Their work ensures that Silvermines Community Centre continues to grow as a modern, well managed, and forward looking rural facility.
The collaboration between local volunteers, NTDC LEADER representatives, and Tipperary County Council was widely acknowledged as a key factor in the project’s success.
Looking Ahead
With the contract now signed, the project will move into the installation phase under the direction of Wizer Energy Ltd. Once completed, Silvermines Community Centre will stand as one of the most energy efficient community buildings in the region — a model for rural sustainability and a testament to what local communities can achieve through determination and partnership.
The signing on Wednesday, 5th August is more than a funding milestone. It is a statement of confidence in Silvermines, its people, and its future.
