Environment & Energy Management by Colin Murphy

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2009

irelandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leading environment & energy management publication

Landfill gas powered electricity generation

www.enviroireland.com

Sustainable Energy Awards Winners 2009

IKEAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s green building

2009 Repak Award Winners

Wave energy

C o n t e n t s

- 2 E NVIRONMENT N EWS

- 22 W AVE E NERGY

News from home and abroad.

Major R&D investment by Vattenfall in Irish clean-tech energy.

PA G E 1 6

PA G E 2 - 5 A IR Q UALITY Irish air quality remains good.

Greenstar strengthens Irish business.

SEI Award for Telefonica O2 Ireland.

- 23 & 24 W ASTE M ANAGEMENT Decrease in municipal waste generation reflects fall in GDP.

- 7 E NERGY S AVING

2010: All aboard the waste rollercoaster.

PA G E 1 9 IKEA’s green building.

GMIT and ESB Independent Energy lead the way with green electricity.

PA G E 7 Green Electricity.

- 9 R ECYCLING

- 27 E NERGY P OINT Latest energy developments in Ireland and overseas.

Repak Recycling Awards 2009 winners.

PA G E 2 2 Wave Energy.

- 13 R ENEWABLE E NERGY Landfill gas powered electricity generation project, Belfast.

PA G E 9

Managing Director: Colin Murphy Sales Director: Ronan McGlade

Repak Award for South Tipperary Co Co.

Production Manager: Susan Doyle Production Assistant: Jackie Kinch

Editor: Mike Rohan Sales Manager: Don Sheridan

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- 16 S USTAINABLE E NERGY

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Retail and telecoms dominate at Sustainable Energy Awards 2009.

Premier Publishing Limited can accept no responsibility for the accuracy of contributors’ articles or statements appearing in this magazine. Any views or opinions expressed are not necessarily those of Premier Publishing and its Directors. No responsibility for loss or distress occasioned to any person acting or refraining from acting as a result of the material in this publication can be accepted by the authors, contributors, editor and publisher. A reader should access separate advice when acting on specific editorial in this publication!

- 19 G REEN B UILDING

PA G E 1 3

Utilising resources through clever design at IKEA Dublin.

Andrew Leach, director, Renewable Power Systems.

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ENVIRONMENT & ENERGY MANAGEMENT, NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2009

E N V I R O N M E N T

N E W S

WASTE MANAGEMENT

Greenstar Strengthens Irish Commercial Waste Business reenstar, Ireland’s largest waste management company, is acquiring the acquisition of the commercial waste and recycling operations of Veolia Environmental Services in Ireland. The sale, which is part of the asset disposal programme announced by parent company Veolia Environment in March 2009, does not include Veolia’s hazardous waste management business, which will continue to operate as part of its strategic plan in the Irish market. On completion of the acquisition, which is subject to Competition Authority approval, Greenstar will consolidate its position as the largest recycling and waste management company in Ireland.

The acquisition will enable Greenstar to strengthen its position in Dublin, Cork and Waterford and expand its national footprint into Limerick. It will also facilitate the entry of Greenstar’s operations into Northern Ireland where Veolia has a materials recycling facility located in Newry. The move by Greenstar follows its recent successful refinancing of a Eur120m debt facility. WASTE MANAGEMENT

International Review of Irish Waste Management Policy The Government has published a major report by Irish and international consultants, which examines all aspects of waste management policy, from prevention and minimisation to the management of residual waste. The report, which provides a blueprint for change, addresses the key issues confronting the Irish waste management sector today and sets out a number of detailed recommendations including the sequencing and timing for implementation. The recommendations will form a key element of a new policy statement on waste currently being developed with a view to its publication early in the New Year. This policy statement is designed to provide certainty for those in the waste management sector and a framework within which the necessary legislative changes can be brought forward. ”I was determined that our review of waste management should be a root and branch one, and it is,” says John Gormley TD, Minister for the Environment, Heritage and 2

The acquisition will result in the addition of 3,500 corporate customers to Greenstar’s existing commercial customer base of 10,000 and 60,000 domestic customers.

Local Government. The scope of the study included identifying possible changes to policy at national level in order to assist Ireland to move towards a sustainable resource and waste policy including minimising the creation of waste and self-sufficiency in the reuse and recycling of materials. The study also sought to address how better to implement waste prevention and minimisation in the particular context of the emergence of new technologies for waste management, particularly those for the mechanical and biological treatment of waste which can reduce the need for both incineration and landfill.

Increases to Landfill Levy The Government has announced increases to the landfill levy to drive waste from landfill in order to meet challenging EU targets, the first of which occurs in 2010. The levy will increase to Eur30 per tonne by 2010, to Eur50 in 2011 and to Eur75 in 2012. Earlier this year the Government also decided to introduce an incineration levy. While the actual rate of the levy will need to relate to the rates of landfill levy just announced, it is envisaged that the incineration levy will be in the range of Eur20 to Eur38 per tonne. CLIMATE CHANGE

John Gormley TD, Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government.

Irish Call For More Government and Business Action on Climate Change A new survey released by the European Commission shows that nearly half of Irish people think that both the Government and business need to do more to fight climate change. However when it comes to paying for these improve-

ENVIRONMENT & ENERGY MANAGEMENT, NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2009

ments two thirds of the public are not willing to foot the bill. The recently published Eurobarometer survey examines attitudes to climate change across all 27 EU Member States. One fact that clearly emerges from the research is that Irish people are not changing their personal behaviour in key areas that reduce their carbon footprint. Only 3% of respondents answered that they have adapted their homes to green fuels (6% EU average) and only 15% of people have decided to use their car less (24% EU average). While 75% of the public want to see increased use of alternative fuels, only 36% are willing to pay for greener energy, far less than the EU average of 49%. But it is not all bad news as three out of four respondents have taken some kind of personal action to fight climate change, far higher than the EU average of 63%. In fact, the Irish are amongst the most enthusiastic recyclers in Europe, with 87% of respondents confirming that they separate their waste (78% EU average).

E N V I R O N M E N T

N E W S

CLIMATE CHANGE

Non-industrial Emissions Key for Meeting Kyoto Targets recent report by the European Environment Agency shows that the European Union and all Member States but one are on track to meet their Kyoto Protocol commitments to limit and reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Whereas the Protocol requires that the EU-15 reduce average emissions during 2008–2012 to 8 % below 1990 levels, the latest projections indicate that the EU-15 will go further, reaching a total reduction of more than 13 % below the base year.

The EEA report shows that the reductions in the period 2008–2012 will be achieved through a combination of existing and additional policies, the purchase by governments of credits from emission-reducing projects outside the EU, the trading of emission allowances by participants in the EU emis COMPOSTING

EPA Research Shows Community Composting Works Urban community composting has the potential for significant social, environmental and economic benefits, according to the findings of a research project conducted by Ballymun Regeneration Ltd. The Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) research and innovation programme, STRIVE, funded the research. The organic waste-composting project was set up within an urban apartment development in Ballymun, and run over a two-year period. In-vessel composting technology was used to process household organic waste. The compost produced was used in horticultural trials at the Botanic Gardens in Dublin. There it was analysed to confirm chemical, physical and nutrient composition. Potential applications and marketing opportunities for local compost use were also assessed and defined. WATER QUALITY

Berson UV Chosen to Disinfect Aruba’s Drinking Water and Greywater Ten of Berson’s InLine UV disinfection systems have been installed on the Caribbean

Berson’s customer service manager Danny van Kuringen with some of the Berson InLine UV disinfection systems at Aruba’s Balashi water treatment plant.

island of Aruba – eight systems are used to disinfect drinking water and two are used to treat greywater prior to discharge. The island opted for UV instead of chlorine as part of its ‘non-chemical’ approach to water treatment. Five Berson UV units are installed at the Balashi water treatment plant, the site of gold mill ruins near Aruba’s capital, Oranjestad, which supplies drinking water and electricity to the island’s residents and businesses. Balashi also houses the world’s second largest desalination plant. Following the desalination process the water passes through the UV systems before being transported to seven storage tanks situated at elevated locations around the island. The UV units, which are installed outdoors and

sion trading scheme (EU ETS) and forestry activities that absorb carbon from the atmosphere. The trading scheme primarily covers large carbon-emitting industries, which represent about 40 % of EU greenhouse gas emissions. Looking further ahead, almost three quarters of the EU’s unilateral target to cut emissions to 20 % below 1990 levels by 2020 could be achieved domestically (ie without purchase of credits outside the EU). Five EU-15 Member States (France, Germany, Greece, Sweden and the United Kingdom) have already reduced domestic emissions below their targets. Only Austria expects to fall short of its commitment under current conditions and will have to intensify its efforts to reduce emissions in non-ETS sectors. controlled by DGtronic microprocessors, each disinfect 400m3 of water per hour, rising to 600m3/h during peak flow conditions. No chlorine is used at any stage of water the treatment process. Two of the seven storage tanks situated around the island are also fitted with Berson’s InLine UV systems, providing an additional disinfection step prior to distribution. Based in the Netherlands, Berson (www.bersonuv.com) is a world leader in closed-vessel, medium pressure UV disinfection technology for drinking water and wastewater applications, with installations across the globe, from the USA to Australia. Along with fellow UV companies Hanovia in the UK and Aquionics in the USA, Berson is part of the Fluid Technology Division of www.halma.com

A Berson InLine UV disinfection system installed on one of Aruba’s drinking water storage tanks.

ENVIRONMENT & ENERGY MANAGEMENT, NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2009

Brand New Handheld Chlorine Tester for Potable Water Palintest, a leading company in water quality analysis, has launched a new digital Chlorometer for fast, accurate and easy chlorine level measurement. The new product uses the tried and tested DPD standard method in conjunc-

tion with a photometric analyser to give near instant results. This method produces highly accurate results, and is not subject to interpretation errors that can come with a purely human visual colour judgement. The new Chlorometer is very easy to use, while its small size (150 x 65 x 40mm) and light weight (200g) make the unit ideal for in-field and onsite testing. Its accuracy makes it suitable for bench use in both laboratories and treatment plants. For further information contact Palintest on Tel +44 (0)191 491 0808 or visit www.palintest.com. 3

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I AIR QUALITY

Irish Air Quality Remains Good he EPA’s report – ‘Air Quality in Ireland 2008 – Key Indicators of Ambient Air Quality’ - shows that air quality in Ireland was good throughout the country and complied with all the air quality standards in force across Europe for all pollutants. Results were based on monitoring data from 30 stations, producing hourly or daily data as required by the EU Directives on Air Quality. The main pollutants recorded in 2008 were nitrogen dioxide and partic-

ulate matter (PM10). Nitrogen dioxide levels were highest in the most urbanised areas, mainly due to traffic density. Particulates were highest in cities and smaller towns. This is most probably due to traffic density in cities and use of smoky fuel in smaller towns. New monitoring locations in 2008 included, Blanchardstown, Clonskeagh, Dun Laoghaire, Knocklyon and Tallaght in Dublin and Letterkenny in County Donegal. I

The EPA report shows that air quality in Ireland was good and complied with all the air quality standards in force across Europe for all pollutants.

Report Highlights • Sulphur dioxide (SO2) concentrations measured in 2008 were very low relative to the limit values. There were no exceedances of either the daily limit value of 125 ug/m3 or the hourly limit value of 350 ug/m3 at any station. • Nitrogen dioxide (NO2) concentrations measured in 2008 were compliant with all limit values. The highest annual mean value of 36 ug/m3 recorded at Winetavern Street in Dublin was within the limit value of 40 ug/m3. Navan and Blanchardstown monitoring stations both recorded one exceedance of the forthcoming hourly limit value which will permit no more than 18 exceedances greater than 200 ug/m3 in a calendar year from 2010 onwards. • Particulate matter (PM10) concentrations in 2008 were all compliant with the standard introduced from 2005, which permits no more than 35 daily values greater than the limit value of 50 ug/m3. Annual mean concentrations measured at all stations were below the 40 ug/m3 limit value for annual mean. • Lead (Pb) concentrations measured at all stations in 2008 were below the limit value of 0.5 ug/m3 which came into force on 1 January

2005. Urban lead levels recorded were all less than one-tenth of the limit value. • Benzene (C6H6) concentrations measured at all stations in 2008 were below the forthcoming limit value of 5 ug/m3 which will be mandatory from 2010. • Carbon monoxide (CO) concentrations measured at all fixed locations and at a number of additional EPA mobile sites in 2008 were well within the daily 8-hour mean limit of 10 mg/m3. The highest maximum 8-hour CO level of 6 mg/m3 was recorded at Coleraine Street in Dublin. • Ozone (O3) concentrations measured in Ireland in 2008 were similar to those measured in 2007. The hourly information threshold of 180 ug/m3 was not exceeded at any station. The 8-hour target value of 120 ug/m3 was exceeded at four rural stations and one suburban station. The highest number of exceedances was 8 days at Valentia, well within the permitted number of 25 days. The AOT40 2020 long-term objective of 6,000 µg/m3.h for the protection of vegetation was exceeded at two rural stations, Mace Head and Valentia.

Turnkey Has an Air of Quality urnkey Instruments, a world leading manufacturer of scientific and industrial apparatus, has recently been awarded MCERTS certification for two of its particulate monitors. Under strict UK and European Laws, businesses who release emissions to air, land or water must monitor their discharge into the environment. The instruments used to measure these emissions must meet stringent guidelines, and Turnkey’s Topas and Osiris products have achieved such a standard. Both monitors have been approved by the Environment Agency’s scheme, which offers benefits and assurances to the public, the regulator and Turnkey’s clients. The stan-

dard ensures that the public receive reliable information about air quality from busi-

nesses. Regulators can feel confident that equipment with the MCERTS award is recording accurate data. Companies investing in the products know that they are complying with UK regulations, and that they are demonstrating a commitment to environmental issues. For Turnkey, the standard gives the company independent approval of the two instruments and recognition for being the market leader in the industry, offering the latest equipment and highest service standards available today. For further details on Turnkey Instruments and its product range call Dave Brooks on +44 (0)1606 44520 or email dave.brooks @turnkey-instruments.com. I

ENVIRONMENT & ENERGY MANAGEMENT, NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2009

I AIR QUALITY

Enviro Technology - At the Forefront of Ireland’s Air Quality Monitoring for 26 Years ith environmental awareness, pollution control and future energy requirements playing an increasing part in political and social debates across the globe, never before has the issue of air quality monitoring been higher up the political agenda. And Ireland is no exception. Air quality monitoring specialist Enviro Technology has been at the forefront of ambient and continuous emissions monitoring in Ireland since the company was launched in 1983. Now, some 26 years later, Enviro Technology’s air quality monitoring and continuous emissions monitoring systems can be found across the country and even in remote Irish locations often only mentioned in shipping forecasts, such as Malin Head and Valencia. Enviro Technology has worked with a wealth of Irish clients from various sectors including local authority, power, scientific & research and airports to name but a few. Says Enviro Technology’s sales & marketing director Duncan Mounsor: “The first equipment we ever sold in Ireland was to ESB. This customer was looking for a system that could monitor ambient air quality in order to provide information for an Environmental Impact Assessment for Moneypoint Power Station.” In fact, supplying monitoring equipment for EIAs and background studies has formed a significant part of ET’s work over the past 26 years.

Dublin Airport's mobile air quality monitoring station.

“In our work with Dublin Institute of Technology we have been involved in many exciting projects over the years including the installation of our unique Opsis openpath monitoring system.” Duncan Mounsor continues: “We have also installed monitoring equipment and provide service and support at some of the most remote parts of Ireland including Mace Head.” Due to its remote location, Mace Head has proved a unique sampling site for those scientists looking at pollution that is coming across the Atlantic from America and the rest of Europe. And some interesting results have been gathered.” Other air quality monitoring clients include local authorities such as Dublin City Council, Cork City Council and Belfast City Council as well as Dublin Airport. The Irish EPA also uses a variety of ET equipment for ambient monitoring

of organic and inorganic compounds. Continuous emissions monitoring forms another key part of ET’s customer base in Ireland with the first CEMS order – for 10 stations - being placed by ESB in the mid 90s. This order enabled Enviro Technology to set up a dedicated service centre for Ireland which is based in Kilkenny. The centre, which provides excellent levels of service and support to Irish customers, is backed up by Enviro Technology’s growing network of UK engineers. “When it comes to AQ and CEMS monitoring, there really is nothing we cannot do. Whether a customer is looking for a trailer, roadside or walk in enclosure that houses AQ monitoring equipment, or a cross-duct CEMS system that monitors a multitude of compounds, we have the experience, equipment and service offering to suit,” he points out. “Although, from an international perspective, Ireland is a small market when it comes to air quality monitoring, we consider ourselves a major player in this field with a very high market share.” Duncan Mounsor concludes: “We believe that the reason for our success in Ireland to date is due to the long standing relationships we have with our customers, our outstanding levels of customer support and an excellent track record.” For further information visit www.et.co.uk, call +44 (0)1453 733200 or email sales@et.co.uk. I

Crowcon’s New Gas-Tec Gas Detector rowcon’s new Gas-Tec portable gas detector is designed to rapidly identify and localise methane leaks from landfill sites and waste processing facilities. Using Crowcon’s tried and tested flame ionisation chamber, the Gas-Tec also features next generation technology such as GPS, data and event logging. The new device allows survey teams to track progress and quickly pinpoint and record areas of significant interest. Methane poses a severe explosion risk, is damaging to surrounding plant life and is also a greenhouse gas. It is generated during the working life of a landfill site and for as long as 30-40 years after a site has

been covered over. Weighing just 2.4kg (without the gas bottle), the Gas-Tec is worn across the body and is ergonomically designed to sit comfortably whilst in use. Simple and intuitive to operate, its liquid crystal display and soft keys offer full sequence instructions, in-operation options, service and calibration set-up and alerts. Menu prompts guide users through start-up and shutdown procedures, reducing training requirements. For further information contact Crowcon Detection Instruments on Tel +44 (0)1235 557700 or visit www.crowcon.com. I

Crowcon’s Gas-Tec portable hydrocarbon gas detector showing a landfill site in the background.

ENVIRONMENT & ENERGY MANAGEMENT, NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2009

I ENERGY SAVING

GMIT and ESB Independent Energy Lead the Way With Green Electricity In a significant move, Galway-Mayo Institute of Technology (GMIT) is to source its electricity from ESB Independent Energy (ESBIE) for the next 12 months in a deal worth about Eur400,000. he agreement will see ESBIE provide GMIT’s multiple campuses with in the regioin of 4.5 million kWhrs of renewable energy. “The decision to move to ESBIE was an easy one to make; we can continue to develop the green ethos of the Institute by reducing the campus’s carbon emissions while getting great value for money,” explains David Lee, buildings and estates manger at GMIT. “With Government public procurement recommendations focused on adopting

David Lee, buildings and estates manger at GMIT, with Liam Molloy, managing director of ESBIE.

green and renewable energy options, ESBIE offered us a service that met all of our needs – a cost effective and environmentally responsible solution that also allowed us to fulfill our procurement obligations.” He continues: “GMIT is delighted to be able to significantly reduce its annual expenditure on electricity. In these times of limited funding and in tandem with leading by example, GMIT is reducing its carbon footprint by purchasing electricity which is certified by ESBIE as being produced using green methods of electricity generation.” Leading the Way “We are always delighted when third-level institutions come on board with ESBIE. Their unique place in society gives them the opportunity to lead the way in the education and implementation of good environmental practice,” says Liam Molloy, managing director of ESBIE. “We can provide a highly tailored energy solution for this multi-campus institute and deliver the

third level students of the area with a first class service. GMIT is at the forefront of developing the educational potential of 9000 students in the Galway-Mayo region and it makes sense for them to adopt a forward looking, green solution to meet their energy requirements.” Alternative Energy The ESBIE commitment to alternative energy, which offers corporate and non residential customers environmentally sustainable products, has made it a significant player with corporate entities and state organisations in the region. ESBIE has secured contracts to date with Galway City Council, Covidien Healthcare Galway and Athlone IT. The power from this deal will be sourced from the ESBIE’s increasing portfolio of renewable energy including the 34.5MW wind farm in Mountain Lodge in Cavan and eventually by the 20MW, 8 turbine wind farm at Hunters Hill in County Tyrone which is currently in development. I

I ZERO WASTE

New Conference in London to Bring Stakeholders Together nergy recovery from waste and biomass materials will be crucial to the UK government's vision of a zerowaste nation. On January 26-27, 2010 the first international conference and exhibition on ‘Energy from Biomass and Waste’ (EBW UK) in London brings together stakeholders to discuss how landfill diversion and carbon emission reduction aspirations can be met. The organiser, Germany-based Freesen & Partner, has a track-record in putting together successful conferences for the environmental market. A key element of the

company’s approach is to create a programme for practitioners and to make attendance affordable (only £199 for the 2day programme including lunches). The conference with more than 50 expert speakers focuses on the efficiency and the cost-saving potential of waste and biomass conversion technologies and presents bestpractice reports from domestic and international facilities. The concurrently held exhibition features displays from over 60 organisations, including advanced anaerobic digestion and waste incineration technology.

EBW UK is sponsored by the East Midlands Development Agency and G+R Technology, a German supplier of turnkey plants for the animal carcass and slaughter waste reprocessing industry. The programme, exhibitor list and online registration are available on: www.ebw-uk.com. I

ENVIRONMENT & ENERGY MANAGEMENT, NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2009

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O O O O O O O O O

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O Hazardous and Non Hazardous Tanks cleaned and de-commissioned O Traffic Management O Waste Oil Recovery O Car Wash and Interceptors O Forecourt Services O Regular Preventative Maintenance contracts O Mobile Sludge De-Watering

074 91 39522 m: e:

dsenvironmental@yahoo.co.uk Winners of the 2009 Donegal Enterprise

087 238 1158

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“Business of the Year Award”

Wallers’-Lot Recycling Centre and Waste Transfer Station Repak Recycling Centre of the Year 2009 Clonmel Road, Cashel, Co. Tipperary 062-64150 www.southtippcoco.ie www.wastenot.ie • Waller’s-Lot Recycling Centre has been recognized for collecting 10,000 tonnes of recyclables in 2008. • Achieving the highest amount of packaging material per user (20 kilos per user) of all the finalists in this category. • Waller’s Lot Recycling Centre is the first recycling centre in Ireland to achieve both ISO 14001 and EMAS accreditation; EMAS is an especially thorough environmental standard. • A wide range of materials are accepted at the facility; including gypsum, which is quite unusual among sites of this kind, and is a very popular feature

I RECYCLING

Repak Recycling Awards 2009 Winners Cadbury Ireland was the winner of the Repak member of the year award and one of the eleven winners at the 8th annual Repak Recycling Awards. adbury Ireland was awarded a recycling accolade for its work in reducing the packaging on its Easter eggs and introducing new packaging formats which lead to a reduction of 730 tonnes of packaging. County Limerick-based Mr Binman was recognised for having diverted 60% of all waste from landfill, while Assumption Secondary School (Walkinstown) was awarded for its planned video on Litter and Waste, is aimed at helping other schools which are trying to get their first Green Flag. The Repak awards celebrate the achievements of companies, schools, local authorities and waste contractors who were recognised for their environmental achievements in recycling and waste reduction. Other winners include Cashel Recycling Centre, which attracted over 10,000 visitors in 2008 and recovered/recycled over 10,000

Minister John Gormley TD and Dr Andrew Hetherington (right), chief executive of Repak, congratulate Deirdre Harte, communications manager, and Tom Byrne, environmental manager, Cadbury Ireland, on winning the Repak Best Member 2009 Award, which was sponsored by Arthur Cox Solicitors, represented by Deirdre O'Mahony (left).

South Tipperary County Council’s Cashel Repak Recycling Centre won the Civic Amenity/Recycling Centre of the Year 2009 award. Pictured are Sean Keating, director of services, South Tipperary County Council; John Gormley TD, Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government; Cllr Liam Ahearn, Cathaoirleach, South Tipperary County Council; and Dr Andrew Hetherington, chief executive of Repak.

tonnes; Louth County Council, which installed underground BringBank facilities; Quish’s SuperValu, which achieved savings of about Eur9,000 in waste charges, a 27% reduction year on year as a result of its reuse of materials across the store, as well as investing heavily in training of staff; Citywest Hotel, Dublin, which reduced the amount of waste produced by 26%, and achieved an overall recovery/recycling rate of 60%; The Clarion Hotel Cork, which has grown its waste recycling rates three fold to 30% up from 12% the previous year; Evode Industries, which through reducing packaging waste, has prevented 40 tonnes of packaging going onto the market; Green Isle Foods, which through packaging initiatives, has achieved the elimination of 850 tonnes of packaging, including wood, plastic and carton board from the market – the equivalent of preventing approximately 19 million pizza boxes hitting the market. Collectively three winners alone prevented nearly 1620 tonnes of

Cashel Recycling Centre Wins Repak Recycling Centre of the Year Award 2009 South Tipperary County Councils’ Recycling Centre at Wallers Lot, Cashel, has won the prestigious Repak Recycling Centre of the Year Award 2009. There is a wide range of contributing factors to this win for Cashel Recycling Centre, which first opened its doors in 2006. The recycling centre participates actively in the community, facilitating school tours and holding annual family fun days during Repak Recycling Week. The centre has attracted over 10,000 users in 2008 and received the highest amount of packaging material per user (20 kilos per user) of all the

finalists in its category. Cashel Recycling Centre features an innovative, user friendly split-level design and is the first recycling centre in Ireland to achieve both ISO 14001 and EMAS accreditation; EMAS is an especially thorough environmental standard. “We are particularly thrilled to win this award and be recognised at a national level,” says Pat Walsh, recycling centre manager. “The staff working at the recycling centre should be particularly thanked for their hard work and enthusiasm. Users of the centre often comment on their friendliness and willingness to help.”

ENVIRONMENT & ENERGY MANAGEMENT, NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2009

used packaging from going onto the market through their prevention programs, which is the equivalent of avoiding 59,000 green bins full of used packaging. Roll of Honour The list of winners, which were presented with awards by Environment Minister John Gormley at a ceremony in Croke Park, were: • Assumption National School, Walkinstown: Repak Recycling School of the Year. • Shabra: Repak Recycling Recovery Operator of the Year 2009: SME Company. • Mr Binman: Repak Recovery Operator of the Year 2008 – Large Company. • South Tipperary County Council - Cashel Repak Recycling Centre: Civic Amenity/Recycling Centre of the Year 2009. • Louth County Council: Repak Local Authority of the Year 2009. • Quish's SuperValu Supermarket, Ballincollig, Co. Cork: Repak Best Practice Award 2009 – Independent Retail. • Joint winners: The Citywest Hotel & The Clarion Hotel, Cork: Repak Best Practice Award 2009 – Hospitality Sector. • Evode Industries: Repak Best Practice Award 2009. • Green Isle Foods: Repak Best Packaging Prevention Initiative Award 2009. • Cadbury Ireland: Repak Member of the Year 2009. • Croke Park: Repak Partnership Award. “Each year we get more tangible evidence from producers, schools, individual and collectors (both local authorities and private

Minister John Gormley TD and Dr Andrew Hetherington (right), chief executive of Repak. congratulate Martin Sheahan Snr., chairman, and Margaret Egan, environmental officer from Mr. Binman, winners of Repak Recovery Operator of the Year 2009 Award (Large Company), sponsored by Tetra Pak represented by Deborah Ryan (left).

operators) of the real differences they are making through their packaging prevention and recycling programs. These programs are contributing to financial and environmental costs savings for us all,” comments Dr Andrew Hetherington, chief executive of Repak. “This year has been no exception, and we’ve seen tremendous successes from all of our winners and finalists.” I

Minister John Gormley TD and Dr Andrew Hetherington (right), chief executive Minister John Gormley TD and Dr Andrew Hetherington (right), chief executive

of Repak, congratulate Mary Murtagh, senior executive officer, Louth County

of Repak, congratulate Charlie Sheil, general manager of Clarion Hotel Cork,

Council, and Eamonn Walsh, director of Services, Louth County Council, on

on wining the Repak Best Practice Award in the Hospitality Sector 2009, which

winning the Repak Local Authority of the Year 2009 Award, which was

was sponsored by Rehab Recycling, represented by Michael Horgan (left).

sponsored by Rehab Recycling, represented by Michael Horgan (centre).

Clarion Hotel, Cork - Joint Winner of the: Repak Best Practice Award 2009 – Hospitality Sector Superbly located overlooking Cork’s famous River Lee and facing the inspired architecture of City Hall, the 4 Star Clarion Hotel is only a 2 minute walk to the business, shopping and entertainment centre of Cork City. In 2008 the Hotel was awarded the International Clarion Hotel of the Year by Choice Hotels International. With 197 bedrooms, the Penthouse Suite, 6 meeting rooms, Sanovitae Health & Fitness and Essence Spa, the Clarion Hotel Cork is one of the largest hotels in Cork City. Hotel facilities include: • 197 bedrooms including: 178 Superior Rooms, 10 Executive Rooms, 2 Suites and 6 Apartments and each includes complimentary broadband, air conditioning, interactive TV, safe, mini bar; • The Penthouse (130 sq m) is undoubtedly one of the Cork’s most exclusive venues where you have room to party or just relax and it is fitted with all the latest technology; • The Conference & Events Centre is fitted with 6 meeting and event venues with capacity from 2-350 people and as a Wedding

Venue with capacity up to 240 people, • The Sanovitae Health and Fitness Club with its 18 meters swimming pool, Jacuzzi, Sauna, Steam room, and the state-of-the-art Gymnasium where each cardiovascular machine has its own LCD TV screen; • Essence Spa – The 5 Treatment Room Spa Area; • Complimentary WI-FI is available in all public areas; • Kudos Bar is a popular venue for your favourite tipple where it serves a superb Asian & European Cuisine Menu daily. • The Sinergie Restaurant with its European style menu is a superb treat and serves breakfast daily and dinner at weekends. • Car parking is available underneath the hotel in the Lapps Quay Public Car Park where a special negotiated rate of Eur9 per night is available to residents of the hotel. For further information contact The Clarion Hotel Cork - 2008 International Clarion Hotel of the Year on Tel 00353 21 422 4900, Fax 00353 21 422 4950, Email reservations@clarionhotelcorkcity .com or visit www.clarionhotelcorkcity.com.

ENVIRONMENT & ENERGY MANAGEMENT, NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2009

I RECYCLING

Dirty Recyclables Hampering Recycling in Ireland Recycling in Ireland is being hampered by poor recycling habits with 63% of people claiming not to rinse out their takeaway containers before putting them in their recycling bin according to research by Repak. he research, which looked at the recycling habits of 1,000 people in Ireland, also uncovered that 46% of people do not rinse out their milk and juice containers. The impact of such behaviour is the contamination of dry recyclables such as paper and cardboard from the residues in unwashed/unrinsed containers. The study also showed that in addition to not cleaning out recyclables many people are putting incorrect items in their recycling bins with 20% openly admitting putting in used tissue papers in the green/blue recycling bins, 9% reporting putting in garden waste while another 12% put in used clothes and shoes.

Incorrect Material Repak estimates that annually approximately 20,000 tonnes of incorrect material is put into recycling bins which is taking up valuable space in recycling bins as well as potentially contaminating other recyclables. This is further compounded by people not correctly cleaning or washing out there

recyclables, for example 49% are not cleaning out their sauce and jam jars and 19% putting in unrinsed bottles. “Recycling in Ireland has reached the stage where 97% of people claim to recycle regularly and last year 65% of all used packaging was recycled. While this is positive two key issues remain – how people treat their used packaging and what items they put into their recycling bins,” says Dr Andrew Hetherington, chief executive of Repak. He continues: “As the collapse of the international recycling market last year showed the quality of recyclables is hugely important. Contaminated used packaging devalues the material, can undo the great efforts of householders and could potentially lead to an increase in recycling costs for householders. Good quality material can attract up to double the value of contami-

nated material. Material that should not be in the recycling bin also hampers the recycling efforts adding to complexity and cost.” On the positive side people are responding well to the message to recycle more from around the house with 54% of people recycling regularly from the bathrooms (up 6% on last year) but this is still far from the 99% rate recorded for the kitchen. Also positive is the 42% of people who now claim recycling is part of everyday household routine while 38% feel motivated to recycle as ‘its is a good thing’. Plastic drinks bottles topped the table of claimed recycled items at 87%, up from 75% in 2006, followed by glass containers at 83% and cardboard at 79%. However on the downside 43% do not recycle their foil takeaway trays, 40% do not recycle their biscuit/sweat tins and 37% are not recycling their detergent bottles. I

I ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES

Drain Maintenance and Liquid Waste Management Services From DS Environmental Environmental is one of Ireland’s tions to its customers waste management dewatered sludge has to be carried away DSleading drain maintenance and liquid issues. by means of the KSA-System. The cleaned waste management service providers. With a modern fleet of vacuum tankers, jetting and underground camera surveying equipment, the company provides solu-

On-site dewatering of septic tanks and grease traps with the KSA-SYSTEM offers significant benefits.

DS Environmental Services is based near Letterkenny, County Donegal. It provides a drain maintenance and waste material disposal and treatment service to the industrial, commercial and domestic markets in Ireland. All its operators are fully trained in chemical handling and confined space entry with extensive experience in the Environmental Services sector.

On-site Dewatering On-site dewatering of septic tanks and grease traps with DS Environmental’s KSA-SYSTEM offers significant benefits. Instead of transporting the total wet sludge volume away, as conventional pumpers do, only approximately 15%

reject water can be used for jetting and for refilling the septic tank/grease trap. The example below assumes a septic tank of 3785 ltr (1,000 gallons) and a volume reduction of 85%. A volume reduction of 85% is typical when the tanks are emptied on a regular basis.

For further information contact DS Environmental on Tel 074 9139522 or visit www.dsenvironmental.net. I

ENVIRONMENT & ENERGY MANAGEMENT, NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2009

EPS CONSTRUCTION Ltd. Unit C1 Gorseinon Business Park, West Street Gorseinon, Swansea, SA4 4AA Tel: +44(0)1792 898000 Fax: +44(0)1792 898028 www.epsconstruction.co.uk

• • • • • • • • • • • • • •

HV cable laying High voltage switchgear installation and maintenance Sheath fault location HV terminations Power LV cable terminations Small power and lighting Earth electrode testing Soil resistivity testing Turnkey project management Metering & instrumentation Role of Principal Contractor under CDM Regs Earthing design using the latest CDEGS software Low voltage switchgear installation and maintenance Protection system design, installation, testing and commissioning • Transformer installation testing and commissioning • Provision of HV personnel to carry out switching, testing and commissioning of new and existing networks

TAL has become one of Northern Ireland's most respected and innovative construction companies. Orginally a specialist engineering company, TAL has become a leading property developer and is now gaining a reputation for excellence within other sectors

• • • • •

Private Development Social Housing Leisure | Education | Healthcare Industrial | Commercial | Retail Civil Engineering

TDL is a specialist engineering company distributing a range of geosynthetic products throughout Ireland. TAL Limited TAL House Lissue Industrial Estate East, Lissue Road Lisburn, Co. Antrim BT28 2RB T: 02892 622345 F: 02892 620950 E: construct@tal.ltd.uk

I RENEWABLE ENERGY

Landfill Gas Powered Electricity Generation Project at North Foreshore Landfill Site, Belfast By Andrew Leach CEng MIMechE MCIWM, Director of Renewable Power Systems arely a day goes by when we are not reminded about the fragile state of the environment and the need to save energy and recycle waste. Within most of us is a strong desire to do our bit but the messages can be confusing. Should we be composting food waste? What goes in the recycle bin and what do we throw away? Is an incinerator that generates electricity from burning waste better or worse for the environment than recycling? We hear of the Indonesian rain forests being destroyed to grow palm oil threatening the remaining populations of orangutan and emitting huge amounts of carbon dioxide as well as removing much needed trees, in the name of producing an environmentally friendly fuel for us in the west to put in our cars. We hear of micro wind turbines that don’t generate enough power to cover their operating costs let alone provide a payback on the investment. Yes trying to be green really is a complicated business which can require a PhD in science or engineering to really get to grips with the pros and cons of the different choices on offer, and just as you thought you might be getting to grips with it along comes another quandary because from 18th August this year Belfast City Council have been generating electricity from their landfill site at North Foreshore, Dargan Road. But you say, we are told landfills are wasteful and bad, how can you generate electricity from a landfill?

Source of Renewable Power The reality is landfills are a very significant source of renewable power. In fact in Great Britain since the start of the renewables industry in the mid 1980’s and until very recently, landfills have produced by far the largest amount of renewable electricity, more than wind, hydro and solar, and they have produced this reliably running typically between 8000 and 8400 hours a year. Sadly Northern Ireland has been left behind because of the lack of a support

Pictured at the opening of the landfill gas powered electricity generation plant at North Foreshore landfill site, Belfast, are (left to right): Nigel Dodds, DUP MP for North Belfast; Belfast Lord Mayor,

in coal seams and marsh gas which is probably the behind the strange lights seen over bogs and marshes known as ‘will o the wisp’. Within a deep engineered landfill this gas can be contained and collected. At North Foreshore restoration and capping of the landfill has been going hand in hand with the installation of gas wells and collection pipe work. Now over 200 gas wells up to 20 meters deep are located across the landfill at typically 50 meter centres. These are connected with over 10 km of black MDPE pipe work to a gas extraction plant located in the generation compound.

Councillor Naomi Long; Energy Minister, Arlene

mechanism and high electricity connection cost but this is changing. In August 2009, NIE made the final connection to a generating station to be fuelled by landfill gas at North Foreshore and the first of five large generators was fired up and commenced its final commissioning test producing electricity as it did so that was exported into the local electricity network. By the 30th of September all five generators of 1150 kW each were up and running at full load in time to be officially opened by the Lord Mayor of Belfast Naomi Long and the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Investment, Arlene Foster on the 1st October 2009.

The Gas Plant The gas plant applies a steady and consistent suction of around 30 mbar to the pipe work system and gas wells. This suction draws gas from the waste towards and into the wells from distances of 50 meters or more putting the whole site under suction. In fact slight over suction is exerted resulting in a small movement of air into the site to ensure full and effective collection of al the gas being produced. The gas typically comprises 50% methane, 37% carbon dioxide, 12% nitrogen and 1% oxygen and is an ideal fuel for use in spark ignition gas engines. Spark ignition engines being basically the same as the petrol engine in your car as opposed to compression ignition engines as are used in diesel cars and lorries.

Electricity From Landfill So how does a landfill produce electricity you may be asking? Well landfill gas is a product of nature. When organic material decays it breaks down releasing gas and moisture. When this decay occurs in the presence of oxygen, as in the case of a composting process, carbon dioxide is given off together with ‘steam’ or water vapour. When the process occurs where oxygen is excluded or depleted the gases produced are methane and carbon dioxide. In nature this gas gives rise to ‘Firedamp’

Power Generation At North Foreshore there are five large Caterpillar V16 cylinder of 68 litres (ie 34 times larger than the engine of an average family saloon car). Each generator produces 1150 kW of electricity at 400 volts. This electricity is transformed to 11000 volts before being supplied into NIE’s network. This is enough power to supply 6000 homes. In fact it is highly likely that many of the Belfast homes now receiving power supplied from the North Foreshore generation facility are occupied by people

Foster; and Andrew Leach, managing director of Renewable Power Systems.

ENVIRONMENT & ENERGY MANAGEMENT, NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2009

I RENEWABLE ENERGY

Giant’s Park Renewable Electricity Plant Officially Opened orthern Ireland’s Energy Minister Arlene Foster has officially opened N Belfast City Council’s first landfill gas electricity generating plant. It is located on the former landfill site at the North Foreshore, now known as Giant’s Park, and we are told it will provide enough renewable electricity to supply around 6,000 households. At 5MW, it is the largest such generation site in Northern Ireland. It is also just the second such site to be generating electricity to date; the only other one being the 0.5MW site that opened near Tandragee last year. The Giant’s Park also represents a ‘first’ in the landfill sector for McCormick Macnaughton, the sole distributor of Caterpillar Power Generation products for Ireland.

There are five Caterpillar G3516 1.1MW gas generator sets located on the site. The project was delivered to the council by Renewable Power Systems (RPS) and McCormick Macnaughton’s role in the venture lies in its commitment to RPS, and the City Council, to keep these engines in optimum condition, generating power for

the city of Belfast, 365 days a year – an element of the project which has taken about three years to bring to reality. “It’s been a very prestigious project for us to be involved in,” says Gary Megarrell, group service operations manager at McCormick Macnaughton, who will now be operating and maintaining the generation equipment on the site. “Landfill gas generation is relatively new in this part of the world and we can see great future potential in this marketplace.” McCormick Macnaughton, of course, already has a well established Power Systems division, providing emergency prime and standby power generator installations for hospitals, utilities, government and industry, offering both off-the-shelf and tailor-made generator sets. I

who contributed the waste in the past not realising that it would later be recycled to them as energy. The gas is extracted at the rate at which it is being produced day and night, summer and winter. As a result the North Foreshore landfill gas generators are expected to run at full load for 94% of the time. A small amount of down time is required for servicing and maintenance. This makes it a very reliable source of renewable power.

The Project The project has been designed and built by Renewable Power Systems following the award of a contract by Belfast City Council in November 2008. Renewable Power Systems was established in 1992 and has designed, built and operated over 50 landfill gas generating projects of all sizes in that period. Renewable Power Systems relied heavily on the contribution from local business including Lisburn-based civil engineers TAL Ltd who are developing a growing reputation in

the landfill engineering business and as well as constructing the compound have installed the gas collection system and restored the site. McCormick Macnaughton also of Lisburn have been contracted to under take the operation, maintenance and servicing of the Caterpillar generators. The gas plant, which collects gas from the wells and delivers it to the generators and also has the facility to flare surplus gas whilst generators are being maintained, was manufactured by Landfill Systems Maintenance from Suffolk. I

I CIVIL ENGINEERING

Fresh Focus at TAL Group he recent restructuring of the TAL T Group has meant that the civil engineering function has been established as a separate limited company, TAL Civil Engineering Ltd. The result is a fresh focus on growth and the completion of some very prestigious contracts, including infrastructure works for the regeneration of energy from landfill gas in conjunction with Renewable Power Systems at Dargan Road (Belfast) and Ballyfodrin (Portadown) landfill sites. As well as commercial building, TAL has always had a strong civil engineering interest, indeed, the roots of the company go 14

back 28 years to early TAL Stabilization Ltd. Heading up TAL Civil Engineering Ltd, Martin Hamill, commercial director, and Peter Murray, contracts director, have the specific responsibility for growing the company. Whilst TAL Civil Engineering Ltd already has an impressive record in the development of landfill sites, it specialises in both steep wall lining and total enclosure netting systems. However TAL Civil Engineering has also established itself as a leading contractor in the closure of many of the landfill sites where they were once ini-

tially developed. These works have included the extraction and treatment of leachate and landfill gas. I

ENVIRONMENT & ENERGY MANAGEMENT, NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2009

I CARBON FOOTPRINT

Ireland Lags Behind European Neighbours in Carbon Management it by the increasing cost of carbon taxes, H water rates, waste charges, transport and fuel costs, many Irish business are only now beginning to wake up to the importance of carbon management. Our European neighbours, in particular the UK, have been using comparative carbon emissions data to measure company performance for some time now. Companies with low carbon emissions relative to their peers are typically more financially sustainable and are more protected against the risk of future price shocks. Clearstream Solutions is one of Ireland’s leading specialists in carbon management. Headquartered in Sandyford, Dublin and supported by the Dun Laoghaire Enterprise Board, Clearstream Solutions provides its clients with a range of carbon management and environmental services including carbon footprinting, training, project management and compliance. Clearstream Solutions is headed up by Brian O’Kennedy, a seasoned supply chain executive. Having spent over 16 years in global supply chain, Brian O’Kennedy suggests that Ireland lags behind our

European neighbours in terms will require evidence of carof compliance in this area, and bon management strategy. that this presents a major risk. Green Public Procurement “We can no longer afford to has been slow in Ireland, but wait for Government to legisit is coming. Does your late for Climate Change. organisation have an Simply put, organisations need Environmental Policy to measure, manage and Statement, metrics, awards or reduce their carbon emissions, certifications? and also those of their prod* Competitive advantage: ucts and suppliers,” he says. There is still an opportunity “It is not difficult, nor expento lead by example in this sive to properly measure Co2 Brian O’Kennedy, head of area. emissions, and it does result Clearstream Solutions. * Sustainability: Investors, significant benefits.” customers and employees are Brian O’Kennedy presents the following watching. as compelling reasons to * Reporting: Organisations will measure emissions: increasingly be asked to report GHG * Cost Reduction: Cut emissions under schemes such as CDP, carbon emissions and you CRC and Walmart Sustainability cut cost including energy, Assessment. fuel, water, waste, transport * Global warming: “Are the floods and and materials. fires getting worse? Even if you are not * Cost impacts in the sup- 100% sure, is it worth taking the risk? The ply chain: Why does result of inaction on Climate Change Walmart the world’s largest could cost many livelihoods and even retailer ask its suppliers to lives,” argues Brian O’Kennedy. measure carbon emissions? Take a free ‘environmental fitness assessWhat happens to your ment’, and for further information on calorganisation if oil goes over culating your carbon footprint and embedEur120 a barrel? ding a low carbon culture, contact * Tenders: Public sector as Clearstream Solutions at www.clearwell as private sector tenders streamsolutions.ie. I

I DATE DESTRUCTION

Data Breaches Spark Hard Drive Shredding Boom usiness laptops and PC’s often contain B confidential or personal data as well as intellectual property. Data has a value and should be protected as such, especially when IT equipment is being replaced. A third of discarded hard disk drives still contain confidential data, according to a new study which unearthed copies of hospital records and sensitive military information on kit sold on eBay. Researchers from the University of Glamorgan found the data when they bought 300 drives from eBay, other auction sites, secondhand stalls and car boot sales as part of their annual survey report. Hard Disk Drives, CD-ROMs or USB key storage devices often hold gigabytes of sensitive information including details of staff, clients and

suppliers. Secure destruction by shredding the hard drive on-site is considered to be the ‘best practice’ method of preventing data loss. In response, local company AMI has just

introduced a unique new mobile Hard Drive Shredding service, branded as ‘DiskShred’. This on-site service arranges to shred computer hard drives into tiny pieces of debris right at the customer’s premises inside their purpose-designed high-tech ‘DiskShred’ lorry. Other types of electronic storage media, such as Back-up Tapes, CDs, mobile phones and USB memory keys can also be dealt with in this manner. DiskShred’s current clients throughout the UK and Ireland, includes Government Departments, data centres, banks, accountancy practices and law firms. For further information contact Disk-Shred Ireland on Tel: 1800805083, Email info@ diskshred.ie or visit www.diskshred.ie. I

ENVIRONMENT & ENERGY MANAGEMENT, NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2009

I SUSTAINABLE ENERGY

Retail and TelecomsDominate at Sustainable Energy Awards 2009 Retail and telecoms emerged as the most progressive sectors for energy management at Sustainable Energy Ireland’s sixth annual Sustainable Energy Awards, with Dunnes Stores, Heatons, O2 and eircom each taking awards at the all-island event. ponsored by ESB Customer Supply, the SEI Awards highlight excellence in business energy management and this year included entries from over 100 organisations. Top prize, ‘Outstanding Energy Manager of the Year’, went to Jonathan Pugsley of Leitrim- based door manufacturer Masonite Ireland, which demonstrated 30% energy savings across their business, slashing their energy costs dramatically in the process. Other winners include: • Telefonica O2 Ireland who won ‘Pioneering Renewable Energy Project’ for Ireland’s first self-sustaining base station powered by wind and solar power – see Panel One; • Dunnes Stores for ‘Inspiring Energy Awareness Campaign’ following a reduction in electricity use of 17% across all 114 stores nationwide; • ‘Leading Energy Efficiency Project’ for Heatons Dundalk whose new building uses 45% less electricity and is on target to achieve a 30% reduction in maintenance costs; • eircom who won the award for ‘Sustainable Energy Building Excellence’ for their energy efficient headquarters in the Heuston Quarter in Dublin – see Panel Two. • Wexford Creamery was named ‘Leading Energy Efficiency Project – Large User Winner’ - see Panel Three.

Energy Savings In total, projects entered demonstrated energy savings of Eur14

Eircom receiving the award for ‘Sustainable Energy Building Excellence’ for their energy efficient headquarters in the Heuston Quarter in Dublin. See Panel Two.

million, with an additional Eur18 million in projected cost savings identified. 2009 also saw a jump in the number of smaller businesses entering the awards across multiple sectors, reflecting the completion by SEI of over 1,500 small business energy assessments over the past two years. Cumulatively, Eur341 milPanel One: Category B – Pioneering Renewable Energy Projects Winner - Telefonica O2 Ireland Telefonica O2 Ireland is the second biggest Mobile Operator in Ireland with over 1.7 million subscribers. O2 currently have over 2000 Radio Base Station sites located throughout Ireland.

Project Description This is Ireland’s first radio base station to fully generate its own electricity. The tower is powered entirely by a small wind turbine and solar panels with battery storage. O2, alone have over 2000 such base stations, so the replication potential of this project is very strong.

Judges Comments

Telefonica O2 Ireland receiving the award for ‘Pioneering Renewable Energy

‘Innovative renewable energy efficiency project with high replication potential. The project demonstrates a self sustainable mobile communication station powered by a hybrid small scale wind generator and a solar PV system with a battery storage replacing a standard diesel generator.’

Project’. See Panel One.

ENVIRONMENT & ENERGY MANAGEMENT, NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2009

Panel Two: Category C – Sustainable Energy Building Excellence Winner - eircom Eircom is the leading provider of fixed-line telecommunications services in Ireland, with approximately 7,000 employees, eircom Group is one of Ireland's largest employers.

Project Description The new corporate head office is nine stories high and houses 1,200 employees. The building demonstrates a very high standard of building design, smart use of natural and artificial light and active intelligently controlled building services. The end result is a building that provides high quality working conditions for a substantially lower energy demand.

Judges Comments

Heatons Store, Dundalk, receiving the award for ‘Leading Energy Efficiency

‘This very high standard of building design, smart use of natural and artificial lighting coupled with the positive integration of passive and active intelligently controlled building services and architectural elements, has resulted in a mixed mode solution that has, in practice, achieved significant energy savings and at the same time maintaining a greatly enhanced visual and working environment.’

Project’.

lion in estimated energy cost savings has been achieved by projects entered in the Awards since 2004. “These Awards are a welcome encouragement for Irish business, at a time when cost-savings and increased efficiency are at the top of the company agenda. This year’s participants achieved significant reductions in their energy overheads, a pattern which with continued Government support, can be replicated right across our business sector. By making relatively simple changes, all Irish businesses can increase their efficiency, reduce their energy consumption and crucially make real financial savings,” says Energy Minister Eamon Ryan TD. Reaping the Rewards ”In this the sixth year of the Energy Awards, SEI is particularly pleased at the number and quality of this year’s entries,” comments Professor Owen Lewis, chief executive of SEI: “We saw a marked increase in entries from smaller businesses that are reaping the rewards of energy management. This is further proof that energy efficiency is on the agenda of every business throughout the country regardless of size or sector.” According to Brid Horan, executive director, Energy Solutions ESB: “The Sustainable Energy Awards have become a catalyst for change. By encouraging all sectors of business to

recognise the need for energy management and sustainability, the awards are stimulating awareness and accelerating the rate of practical initiatives that companies are now required to make.“ 2009 Sustainable Energy Award Winners: • Category A: Leading Energy Efficiency Project – Larger User (Annual energy spend €1M): Wexford Creamery • Category A: Leading Energy Efficiency Project –Medium User (€200K; €1M): Semple McKillop Consulting Engineers – St Luke’s Hospital, Armagh City • Category A: Leading Energy Efficiency Project – Small User (€200K): Heatons Store, Dundalk • Category B: Pioneering Renewable Energy project: Telefonica O2 Ireland • Category C: Sustainable Energy Building Excellence: eircom Ltd • Category D: Inspiring Energy Awareness Campaign: Dunnes Stores • Category E: Excellence in Coordinated Energy Management programme (Large): Xerox, Dundalk Toner Plant • Category E: Excellence in Coordinated Energy Management programme (Small/Medium): Institute of Technology, Tralee • Category F: Outstanding Energy Manager of the Year (Large): Jonathan Pugsley, Masonite Ireland • Category F: Outstanding Energy Manager of the Year (small/medium): Paul Boylan, Citi I Panel Three: Leading Energy Efficiency Project – Large User Winner - Wexford Creamery Wexford Creamery is located on a 10,000sq m site, it currently employs 100 people and is one of the most modern cheese plants in Europe. Output consists of approximately 13,500 tonnes of cheese and 6,5000 tonnes of whey annually.

Project Description Wexford Creamery Energy Team implemented an intensive 10 week energy efficiency project, working closely with operators and maintenance personnel to carry out a range of actions including monitoring, energy audits and adjusting production schedules. Within ten weeks Wexford Creamery reduced usage by almost 50%.

Judges Comments

Wexford Creamery receiving the award for ‘Leading Energy Efficiency Project –

‘Exemplar project, shows what can be done on an older plant through a programme of simpler measures by a concerted effort from enthusiastic staff. Very replicable.’

Large User’. See Panel Three.

ENVIRONMENT & ENERGY MANAGEMENT, NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2009

Static Security - Mobile Patrols - Key Holding Service You’re All Secure Ltd. are the market leader in the provision of fully trained Security Officers who will guardyour business with unrivalled professionalism. The main aim of You’re All Secure is the delivery of Static Security to the Construction Industry and the Retail Industry. We currently have over 150 employees working on construction sites throughout Ireland. Our staffs are trained to FETAC Level 4 Standard in Static Security. You're All Secure Ltd. have a wide range of clients from all areas of the construction sector: Building contractors: Residential Estates, Apartments, Blocks and Plant and Equipment. Industry: Factories, Road Construction and Public works Business & Retail: Enterprise Centres, Business Centres and Retail parks You're All Secure Ltd. is deeply committed to delivering the type of service that our clients need. Our management team is available 24 hour round the clock to deal directly with enquiries from our client companies. Galway, Ireland Head Office: Unit 6, Ballybane Enterprise Park, Ballybane, Galway Ph/Fax: 00353 (0)91 759685 Website: www.Youreallsecure.com

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A SECURITY COMPANY THAT YOU CAN RELY ON…YOU’RE

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I GREEN BUILDING

Utilising Resources Through Clever Design at IKEA Dublin Committed to reducing the environmental impact of all its operations while simultaneously improving efficiency, IKEA has invested €2.2 million on renewable energy and recycling technologies at its giant new store at Ballymun, Dublin, to make it one of the most advanced ‘green buildings’ in Ireland.

KEA opened its first store in Ireland at Ballymun in July 2009 – the 25th new market within the Swedish home furnishings retailer’s global network. Located on a 12.6 hectare site in the Ballymun Regeneration zone, the new store covers 31,500 sq metres over two floors, which stock the full range of IKEA items totalling 9,500 products. The environmental and energy efficiency technology incorporated into the new IKEA Ballymun site includes: • Groundsource heating and cooling system; • 650 kW biofuel woodburner heating; • Solar shading to the south facade; • Rainwater harvesting system; • Occupancy driven fresh air provision; • AHUs to provide ‘free’ cooling wherever possible; • Movement detector activated lighting; • Building Energy Management System; • Recycling equipment/system. Regarding the Eur2.2 million invested by IKEA in renewable energy and recycling technology and systems at the Ballymun site, Charlie Browne, corporate environment manager UK & Ireland, explains: “There were local planning requirements for carbon reduction initiatives to be incorporated but we also have a strategy called ‘IKEA Goes Renewable’ which establishes

Siphonic rainwater harvesting inlet on roof.

targets for all new and existing stores. So some were down to planning requirements and other aspects were due to our own international standards.” Geothermal System IKEA has spent Eur1.75 million on the installation of a geothermal system which is the most significant investment in ground source technology in the Irish market. By using the geothermal The IKEA store pre-opening from the customer recycle point. power, sourced from 158 90 metre bore holes drilled under the carpark area, IKEA is burning boiler. The 650 kW wood-burning deriving at least 44% of the Ballymun site’s boiler provides hot water for the entire total energy requirement from renewable store as well as heating for the warehousing sources. The geothermal system will result area. in a 65% annual reduction in carbon emissions, which is equivalent to the annual Impressive Recycling Rate energy consumption of 300 average homes. “During the first month of trading the The rainwater harvested from the roof of store exceeded its target and recycled 90% the Ballymun store is filtered and used to of its waste and in September we reached fill the cisterns for flushing all lavatories on 92%. This compares with a commercial site as well as for landscape watering and Irish national average of 47.5%,” explains water supply to all external taps for clean- Charlie Browne. “This represents a saving ing purposes. “This state-of-the-art system of approximately Eur80,000 per annum for is a good example of how the Dublin store.” IKEA is utilising He continues: “We are cost neutral. The resources through clever design,” he says. The twin goals of IKEA Similarly, IKEA has installed an extremely Goes Renewable are to efficient waste manageultimately use 100% ment system. The largest element of IKEA’s wasterenewable energy and to stream is plastic and cardboard, which are comreduce energy consumption pacted and baled on site. by 25% based on 2005 Damaged pallets and damaged products are levels. used as fuel for the wood-

ENVIRONMENT & ENERGY MANAGEMENT, NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2009

“We are cost neutral. The store is not spending any money on waste disposal.” store is not spending any money on waste disposal. The revenue we are receiving from the baled cardboard and plastic is offsetting any thing that has to be sent out as residual waste.” Of course, this is in direct contrast to most commercial businesses which spend significant amounts on waste disposal. IKEA’s stores in the UK are recycling 85% of all their waste. “Although the UK average is 85%, which was achieved last year, some stores are nearly at 100%. So Dublin has stepped up to the plate and we have installed what we know works. Much of that is down to the pre-training and education we do with our co-workers and then providing the right equipment and protocols,” he remarks. According to Charlie Browne, the 85% recycling rate achieved by IKEA stores in the UK saves the business £1 million a year on waste disposal. In 2003, IKEA was operating 11 outlets in the UK with an average recycling rate of 55% and spending £890.000 on waste disposal. In 2008, with 18 stores achieving a recycling rate of 85%, the waste bill was £760,000. “We now have seven more stores in the estate and bearing in mind increased costs in landfill, transportation and other operation costs, we are actually spending less. We believe we can squeeze out more savings and the goal for us is cost neutrality,” he comments. Highly Efficient Because the Ballymun store is newly built and incorporates the latest energy efficiency and waste management technologies, it is one of the most efficient outlets in IKEA’s international retail network. However, many existing UK stores are being retrofitted with energy saving features such as volt-

Biomass burner.

age optimisation as part of the IKEA Goes Renewable strategy. “To encourage existing stores to adopt renewable technology, even though it is more expensive to retrofit, the IKEA Goes Renewable project has extended the capital expenditure payback from the normal level of 3-5 years to 8 years,” Charlie Browne points out. The twin goals of IKEA Goes Renewable Horizontal cardboard baler producing mill sized bales. are to ultimately use 100% renewable energy and to reduce transport to the store. We are one of the energy consumption by 25% based on very few retailers that have this as a plan. 2005 levels. We have two bus routes serving the store “In the UK we have reduced comparable and we encourage customers to use them.” energy consumption by 25% and we are He elaborates: “IKEA is constantly looknow looking to stretch this to 35% through ing at reducing its overall carbon footprint. retrofitting energy efficiency measures, and We have been doing this for a long time saving from our energy bill £1.2 million a and it is part of our DNA to use resources year which is pure profit to the bottom line and clever design to make the operation to repay those investments” he adds. more cost effective. When we sawed the “We have also been awarded in legs of the first table back in the 1950s it December 2009 the UK carbon trust stan- was not about the environment but to be dard after showing an absolute reduction in more cost effective by fitting more flatenergy consumption even after adding to packed furniture on the trucks, which in the store estate and establishing robust turn leads to less trucks on the road.” energy management routines in our stores.” Sound Business Sense Long-term Approach Charlie Browne stresses that good environNew build projects provide an opportunity mental practice also makes sound business to design in such features from the start. sense. “A good place for any company to However, a long-term approach is neces- start is by looking at the invoices for waste sary. “Often construction projects are disposal, energy costs and consumables, judged on cost per square meter but the such as paper consumption and transport, retailer/owner has then to pick up the oper- because that is where the savings are and ational cost. So you may save a few euro that is also where the environmental per square meter by not fitting phased cir- impacts are. It is important to set targets. cuitry, which will allow you to switch on By reducing your energy bill, you will and off lights by zones, or by not installing reduce your carbon footprint, cutting waste PIRs into buildings but the ongoing energy disposal costs will reduce your impact on cost to the operation afterwards will be sig- landfill, and tackling consumable costs will nificant.” The IKEA UK also reduce your impact on the environand Ireland environmen- ment.” The IKEA UK & Ireland corporate tal manager continues: environment manager concludes: “Don’t “It is important to take green-wash by merely paying lip-service to into consideration the environmental considerations because peolifetime of the building ple will see through it, so make your and the full operational actions real.” I cost and not to focus purely on the capital IKEA has spent Eur1.75 cost.” Commitment to the Environment IKEA’s commitment to the environment extends beyond the building and day-to-day operation of the Ballymun store. “We have a target on customers arriving by public

million on the installation of a geothermal system which is the most significant investment in ground source technology in the Irish market.

ENVIRONMENT & ENERGY MANAGEMENT, NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2009

I WAVE ENERGY

Major R&D Investment by Vattenfall in Irish Clean-tech Vattenfall, one of Europe’s largest electrical utilities, has selected Ireland for an exciting initiative to develop ocean wave energy into a viable, clean and valuable new energy source in the country’s renewable energy portfolio. he investment is being supHarvey Appelbe, project direcported by Government tor for Tonn Energy, comments: through IDA Ireland. Tonn “We are responding to the massive Energy, a joint venture opportunity that Ireland has. between Vattenfall and Wavebob, an Because the country has such a Irish wave farm development firm, vast natural energy resource, and as has been formed to carry out this prothe technology becomes proven, gramme of work. In the long term and the Government policy and this could position Ireland as a net supports take effect, Ireland really exporter of green energy, utilising its can be the ‘Texas of Europe’ massive natural ocean wave resource, exporting large quantities of green and could hold significant benefits for electricity. Tonn Energy will work the West of Ireland through subsewith the Irish agencies to make quent investment and employment. this happen.” Tonn Energy is among the first commercial wave power development Pictured (left to right): Goran Dandanell, director & head of business Industry Partnerships companies in Ireland. It combines the development, Vattenfall; Eamon Ryan TD, Minister for Communications, “The building of significant indusmajor backing and expertise of one of Energy and Natural Resources; Harvey Appelbe, project director, Tonn try partnerships, exemplified by Europe’s large power utilities, Energy; and Denis Molumby, executive director, IDA Ireland. this announcement, is critical to Vattenfall, with innovative wave enerour achieving the objectives of the gy conversion technology company, Tonn’s immediate focus will be Research Ocean Energy Strategy,” explains Owen Wavebob. Work will now begin on the plan- and Development on a site off the coast of Lewis, chief executive of Sustainable Energy ning, installation, operation and maintenance County Mayo, being planned by Sustainable Ireland. “SEI is working on the range of meaof pre-commercial devices at the national Energy Ireland (SEI), which is currently mak- sures that are required to enable this sector to wave energy test site at Belmullet in County ing substantial investments in the necessary develop, including completing the Strategic Mayo. Success there would enable Tonn infrastructure at Belmullet, County Mayo, Environmental Assessment, strengthening our Energy to consider future plans to achieve and whose involvement is crucial to the suc- research capability in wave energy, providing 250MW of generating capacity elsewhere cess of the project grant support to ocean energy companies and around Ireland, which would represent half of The test site is one of the key elements of developing framework studies to guide investthe Government’s published targets for 2020. the Government’s Ocean Energy Programme. ment, infrastructure and implementation Tonn Energy is one of the first industry decisions for large scale ocean energy proReal Opportunities organisations collaborating with SEI on this jects.” I “The participation of a major power utility project. SEI is already supported in developlike Vattenfall, together with an Irish compa- ing the facility by ESBI. Other partners ny, Wavebob, is further proof of the real whose collaboration is also critical, are the opportunities presented by our ocean wave Government (through the Department of energy resources,” says Minister for Communications, Energy & Natural Communications, Energy and Natural Resources), IDA Ireland, Enterprise Ireland, Resources, Eamon Ryan TD. Udaras na Gaeltachta and Mayo County Vattenfall, a Swedish public company, gen- Council. erates, distributes and sells electricity and heat to customers throughout Europe. It generates Focal Point 160TWh of electricity and achieved consoli- “With its magnificent ocean wave resource dated sales in 2008 of approximately Eur17 and commitment by the Government, billion. Operations today are conducted in Ireland has become a focal point for the Sweden, Denmark, Finland, Germany, development of commercial ocean wave enerThe investment is in line with the Government’s Poland, The Netherlands, UK and now gy. With such a great opportunity to produce ‘Strategy for Science, Technology and Innovation’, Ireland. Having acquired the 300MW clean energy, we are very happy to be a key which has the objective of establishing Ireland as a Thanet Offshore Wind project in Kent and partner in Ireland’s ocean energy proleading Ocean Energy Centre, with a target of wind power companies AMEC Wind Energy gramme,” comments Goran Dandanell, having 500MW of OE-generated electricity and Eclipse Energy, Vattenfall is now one of director and head of business development for installed by 2020. the biggest wind power operators in Britain. Vattenfall UK and Ireland.

ENVIRONMENT & ENERGY MANAGEMENT, NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2009

I WASTE MANAGEMENT

Decrease in Municipal Waste Generation Reflects Fall in GDP Ireland is well advanced in achieving most of the EU waste recovery and recycling targets, according to the Environmental Protection Agency’s ‘National Waste Report 2008’. owever, the report urges continued effort to divert biodegradable waste from landfill, and to prevent waste arising from all sectors of society. In 2008, municipal waste generation in Ireland fell by 5%, in line with GDP. The amount of biodegradable waste collected at kerbside from households doubled, and was primarily collected by local authorities. Significant efforts throughout 2008 increased the source separated household waste collection in Ireland and the report found that: • 95% of households with a waste collection service have a minimum of a twobin service (residual ‘black bin’ and dry recyclables ‘green bin’); • 21% of households with a collection service have a three-bin service (residual ‘black bin’, dry recyclables ‘green bin’ and organics ‘brown bin’). “While the reductions in waste generation seen in 2008 are welcome, we must continue to focus on resource efficiency to ensure that when economic growth does return, it is not accompanied by a surge in waste generation,” remarks Dr Gerry Byrne, EPA programme manager. The EPA report states that for 2008: • The generation of municipal waste decreased by 5%, reflecting a reported drop in GDP for the same period and despite a rise in population. • The quantity of biodegradable waste sent to landfill decreased by 19%. Despite this significant drop, Ireland is still 280,000 tonnes above the first EU Landfill Directive limit effective from July 2010. Limits for 2013 and 2016 will be even more stringent – the 2016 limit will require the diversion of 800,000 tonnes of biodegradable waste from landfill. • The recovery of municipal waste increased by 1% to an overall recovery rate of 37.5%. The disposal of municipal waste to landfill decreased by in excess of 76,000 tonnes, a landfill rate of 62.5%. • There was a 24% decrease in the reported quantity of construction and demolition waste managed, as compared to 2007.

Dr Gerry Byrne, EPA programme manager.

• The private sector collected 57% of waste reported as collected from households, with the remainder collected by local authorities. Missing Key EU Target Dr Gerry Byrne continues: “Although significant progress has been made in managing municipal waste in Ireland, the report clearly shows that Ireland is still in danger of missing a key EU target for diverting biodegradable municipal waste from landfill. In particular, we point out that there is a need to divert large quantities of food waste from landfill. Urgent and sustained actions are required if we are to meet the EU target, including the further roll-out of source separate collections, and recovery of organic waste.” In summer 2009, the EPA published guidance on municipal waste pre-treatment. At the same time the EPA began reviewing the municipal waste landfill licences in Ireland to include appropriate pre-treatment licence conditions. This licence review process is expected to be substantially completed by the end of 2009, and will assist in Ireland’s compliance with the Landfill Directive by restricting the amount of biodegradable municipal waste allowed to be landfilled. Biodegradable Municipal Waste Further priority actions for biodegradable municipal waste management in Ireland are recommended in the report. They include the need to: • Formulate and implement regulations/

bye-laws that can be used to enforce the segregation and separate collection of food waste at household and commercial premises. • Put in place services for the separate collection of organic (particularly food) waste at households and commercial premises. • Ensure there is adequate infrastructure to treat the very large quantities of organic (particularly food) waste that must be collected separately and diverted from landfill. • Develop sustainable outlets for the products of such treatment. To this end successful implementation of the Government sponsored Market Development Programme should provide valuable support mechanisms for the national recyclates industry. • Promote food waste prevention through the National Waste Prevention Programme initiatives such as: the Food Waste Prevention and Home Composting projects, Green Business, Green Healthcare and Green Hospitality Awards. “The EPA’s National Waste Prevention Programme focuses on breaking the link between economic growth and waste. Through the Programme we are developing waste prevention and resource efficiency capacity in the areas of waste, water and energy. Such actions can assist everyone, households and businesses alike, to improve resource efficiency and significantly cut costs,” comments Dr Jonathan Derham, senior inspector, EPA. Finally, the report recommends that relevant new waste policy on foot of the Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government-funded International Review of Waste Management Policy in Ireland should be delivered as quickly as possible. This should assist in providing certainty within the waste industry in Ireland and allow for accelerated investment programmes that are necessary if organic waste is to be treated and landfill avoided. The National Waste Report 2008 is available on the EPA website. I

ENVIRONMENT & ENERGY MANAGEMENT, NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2009

I WASTE MANAGEMENT

2010: Here We Go Again, All Aboard the Waste Rollercoaster By Jackie Keaney, Vice President, CEWEP Ireland t has been another rollercoaster year for the waste sector. At the end of a 12month period dominated by dubious reviews, a raft of reports, recurring debates and stop start legislation, is it any wonder that we all feel a little dizzy as the rollercoaster slows to a temporary halt? The overwhelming sentiment of many continues to be summed up in one word – uncertainty. Against the backdrop of an economy where savings have to be made in the public and private sector alike, and an environment that continues to creak under a weight of waste, such uncertainty is Jackie Keaney, Vice President, CEWEP Ireland. unsustainable But before we look forward, let’s take opposite. Rather than provide a basis for stock. strong and innovative policy decisions, this Review has now set us on a course of action International Waste Review that would only serve to increase bin The International Waste Management charges, prolong dependency on landfill Review, published in November, represent- and hit the taxpayer with EU fines in the ed a seminal moment for waste manage- process. ment. This Review was eagerly anticipated Already, the Review’s recommendations by many. With the Review’s summary are unravelling. Its lack of true internationalone running to 78 pages, a further 1,126 al perspective and best practice is alarming. pages of appendices and more than one From a legal perspective, the Review took thousand references, its content was enor- no account of national and EU competimous. tion law. This is particularly relevant given Much of what it contained and recom- the competitive impact many of the mended was solid and sensible. Review’s recommendations would have. No Recommendations concerning macro issues cost benefit analysis was undertaken as part regarding landfill levies right through to of the Review which further undermines its micro matters like junk mail make such credibility. eminent sense as to now firmly qualify in The Review’s particular bias against the ‘no brainer’ category. waste-to-energy had possibly more to do However, when it comes to the big ticket with politics than it did with the environitems, those of us hoping for a Review that ment. Proposals to single out incineration would be founded in reality and set out a for levies are particularly perplexing. Such a clear path for meaningful policy change measure will make one of the main alternahave been left deeply despondent. tives to landfill more expensive, just at a After many years of debate, Ireland had time when we should be seen to actively finally started to adopt a mature approach incentivise the development of such necesto managing its waste, an approach that sary infrastructure. If the proposed incineradhered to the respected and recognised ator levy itself is misguided, then the means EU waste hierarchy model. Rather than proposed for applying it defies logic. acting as the impetus to continue with such Essentially, the Review advocates a ‘crystal an approach, this Review has done the ball’ style levy, applied not only on the

amount of waste a facility would treat but also on the emissions it generates. Such an approach is complex. The associated administrative burden is heavy and unnecessary. This approach would merely compound the errors of the original recommendation itself and flies in the face of international best practice. To positively discourage wasteto-energy before it is even in place in Ireland is a backward step and flies in the face of international best practice. Waste-toenergy technology is essential as part of a combined approach to waste management. With over 350 such facilities in operation across Europe, CEWEP members are generating energy to heat homes while also providing an alternative to landfill. Waste-to-energy represents progress – progress which – until this Review – Ireland had been embracing. Interestingly, on the same day the Review was published an equally significant document was published which has garnered very little attention to date. The Regulatory Impact Assessment (RIA) overseen by the Department was conducted to scope out just how diversion away from landfill could be progressed. It proposes that levies on both landfill and incineration should be equal. This is illogical and is an approach that will do little to divert waste from landfill as incineration has a role in this regard. Many in the waste sector share CEWEP’s concerns as to the RIA and the International Review’s conclusions, any attempts to charge ahead with implementing ill-founded recommendations will ultimately result in further stagnation. The Year Ahead So what next? Despite uncertainties, we must take comfort in the fact that progress is being made and key infrastructure is being progressed here. Ireland’s first wasteto-energy facility is currently under construction in Co Meath. This facility, which is due to become operational in 2011 will

ENVIRONMENT & ENERGY MANAGEMENT, NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2009

I CLIMATE CHANGE

Ireland Must Adapt to Impacts of Climate Change The EPA report ‘A Summary of the State of Knowledge on Climate Change Impacts for Ireland’ provides an assessment of the current knowledge on climate change, and expected impacts for Ireland. he report also highlights a high level assessment of possible impacts for key economic and social sectors in Ireland and identifies a number of adaptation options and gaps in knowledge. “Climate Change is happening in Ireland,” stresses Laura Burke, EPA director of the Office of Climate, Licensing and Resource Use. “This report sets out the likely impacts of temperature rises, wetter winters and warmer seas on areas as diverse as agriculture, fishing, disease control and infrastructural networks (roads, electricity and telecommunications). We need to adapt to climate change and to ensure that adaptation actions are environmentally and economically sustainable.”

and economically sustainable.”

rise by between 1 C to 3 together key informaC by 2100. tion and provides a • Precipitation: There has strategic overview for been a significant increase policy-makers, planners in total rainfall in the and other stakeholders North and West. Many interested in or working stations also show on adaptation. increases in March and The report shows October. Projected where gaps exist in changes include wetter information, where furwinters in the West and ther work is needed to drier summers in the reduce uncertainties or Southeast. where uncertainties • Extreme weather: There need to be factored into has been an observed planning and investdecrease in the frequency ment choices. Key areas of storms, whilst their Laura Burke, EPA director of the Office of further work include of Climate, Licensing and Resource vulnerability analysis to intensity has increased. • Adaptation planning and Use. climate change; adapactions: These actions tive capacity; adaptation will be required to avoid the adverse options and opportunities; costs; informaimpacts of climate change and to take tion provision and capacity building. advantage of any opportunities that may “Continued funding for climate change arise. research is required to advance our underThe report outlines how these changes standing of the issues, challenges and solumay impact key sectors such as: tions. Strategic investment in such research • agriculture, biodiversity, forest and peat- can provide the necessary scientific underlands; standing which is required to inform effi• surface water, coastal and marine cient and cost effective actions on climate resources; change across government and for wider • settlement and society, human health decision-making and planning,” points out and tourism and Frank McGovern, senior manager with the • transport and communications, energy, EPA. industry and insurance. The report was prepared under the EPA’s The impacts for these sectors will vary in Climate Change Research Programme. both their nature and extent. Greater Copies of the report are available on the understanding of these is needed in many EPA website at www.epa.ie/downloads/ areas so that appropriate adaptation options pubs/research/climate/ or from the EPA can be identified. This report brings publications Office on 01 2680100. I

manage 200,000 tonnes of residual waste per annum and generate enough electricity to meet the needs of 20,000 homes. In Dublin, the City Council recently signalled its intention to commence construction of the Poolbeg waste-to-energy facility. And in the first weeks of the New Year, Bord Pleanala is expected to announce its decision on the planning application for a waste-to-energy facility in Ringaskiddy, Co Cork.

Given these levels of activity, CEWEP members will not be alone in watching closely to see what legislative proposals may emerge from the Custom House. Minister Gormley has set his sights firmly on publishing an Environment Bill that is expected to contain measures that will have implications for many. In drafting such a Bill, will the Minister and his colleagues in Government adopt a more consultative approach with the waste sector?

Changes Changes identified in the report include: • Air temperature: Air temperature increased by 0.7 C since 1890. The increase was 0.4 C during the period 1980-2008, which is equivalent to 0.14 C per decade. Temperature is expected to

“We need to adapt to climate change and to ensure that adaptation actions are environmentally

Will the Minister place all his eggs in the flawed basket that is the International Review? Will he take account of the wider economic and environmental realities voiced by bodies like Forfas, the EPA and others. Will the views of those whose interests are overseen by the Minister for Finance and Minister for Enterprise, Trade & Employment be taken into account? Here we go again. All aboard the rollercoaster! I

ENVIRONMENT & ENERGY MANAGEMENT, NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2009

I FIELD STUDY

ABB’s Experience With Constant Lighting Control In almost all the technical literature, constant lighting control is frequently accredited with a high level of potential savings for electrical energy. ABB examined the accuracy of these statements and the specific potential saving values in its own series of tests.

he measurements were performed in an office building with seminar rooms. Using constant lighting control – in contrast to a lighting that is fully switched on – the required lighting intensity in the room is achieved by the continuous and controlled addition of ‘artificial lighting’ required to maintain a defined level of brightness (in these measurements: 500 Lux). Only the amount of energy that is necessary for the artificial lighting is therefore consumed. Constant lighting control is just one feature of the ABB KNX intelligent building system. Measurement 1, October 2008 Training room, ground floor, cloudy day, open blinds, test and usage period from 8:00 am to 3:30 pm: Additional lighting of 2,707 lxh was required. If the lighting had been switched on without control, it would have resulted in a consumption of 3,750 lux hours (lxh). See Table One. Table One:

Calculation of the additional lighting requirement: Measured Required lighting additional Time intensity* lighting 08:00 – 08:30 25 lx 237 lxh 08:30 – 09:00 90 lx 205 lxh 09:00 – 09:30 120 lx 190 lxh 09:30 – 10:00 190 lx 155 lxh 10:00 – 10:30 210 lx 145 lxh 10:30 – 11:00 140 lx 180 lxh 11:00 – 11:30 150 lx 175 lxh 11:30 – 12:00 180 lx 160 lxh 12:00 – 12:30 220 lx 140 lxh 12:30 – 13:00 200 lx 150 lxh 13:00 – 13:30 180 lx 160 lxh 13:30 – 14:00 170 lx 165 lxh 14:00 – 14:30 120 lx 190 lxh 14:30 – 15:00 40 lx 230 lxh 15:00 – 15:30 50 lx 225 lxh Potential savings for this room: approx. 28% *averaged over the usage period

Measurement 2, October 2008 Conference room, first floor, very cloudy day, open blinds, test and usage period from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm: Additional lighting of 2,820 lxh was required. If the lighting had been switched on without control, it would have resulted in a consumption of 4,500 lxh. See Table Two. Table Two:

Calculation of the additional lighting requirement: Measured Required lighting additional Time intensity* lighting 08:00 – 08:30 12 lx 244 lxh 08:30 – 09:00 35 lx 232 lxh 09:00 – 09:30 50 lx 225 lxh 09:30 – 10:00 65 lx 218 lxh 10:00 – 10:30 90 lx 205 lxh 10:30 – 11:00 100 lx 200 lxh 11:00 – 11:30 140 lx 180 lxh 11:30 – 12:00 265 lx 118 lxh 12:00 – 12:30 350 lx 75 lxh 12:30 – 13:00 370 lx 65 lxh 13:00 – 13:30 370 lx 65 lxh 13:30 – 14:00 350 lx 75 lxh 14:00 – 14:30 315 lx 92 lxh 14:30 – 15:00 265 lx 118 lxh 15:00 – 15:30 235 lx 132 lxh 15:30 – 16:00 160 lx 170 lxh 16:00 – 16:30 100 lx 200 lxh 16:30 – 17:00 87 lx 206 lxh Potential savings for this room: approx. 37% *averaged over the usage period

Measurement 3, October 2008 Laboratory, second floor, sunny day, open blinds, test and usage period from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm: Additional lighting of 1,517 lxh was required. If the lighting had been switched on without control, it would have resulted in a consumption of 4,500 lxh. See Table Three.

Table Three:

Calculation of the additional lighting requirement: Measured Required lighting additional Time intensity* lighting 08:00 – 08:30 7 lx 246 lxh 08:30 – 09:00 21 lx 240 lxh 09:00 – 09:30 44 lx 228 lxh 09:30 – 10:00 147 lx 176 lxh 10:00 – 10:30 217 lx 141 lxh 10:30 – 11:00 265 lx 117 lxh 11:00 – 11:30 352 lx 148 lxh 11:30 – 12:00 371 lx 129 lxh 12:00 – 12:30 429 lx 71 lxh 12:30 – 13:00 633 lx 0 lxh 13:00 – 13:30 458 lx 21 lxh 13:30 – 14:00 547 lx 0 lxh 14:00 – 14:30 1276 lx 0 lxh 14:30 – 15:00 1263 lx 0 lxh 15:00 – 15:30 1508 lx 0 lxh 15:30 – 16:00 1830 lx 0 lxh 16:00 – 16:30 1988 lx 0 lxh 16:30 – 17:00 2000 lx 0 lxh Potential savings for this room: approx. 66% *averaged over the usage period

Results 1. A high-level of potential savings with regard to the electrical energy are possible with constant lighting control. 2. A generally valid statement concerning the level of savings is difficult. The result depends on several individual factors, eg daylight factors, alignment of the room, surrounding buildings, etc. In the ABB field studies the constant light control always yielded savings of more than 25% in comparison to manual lighting operation. Measured values for the lighting intensity in the laboratory under examination [Lux] 12 2CDC For more information log onto www.abb.ie or contact ABB at marketing@ie.abb.com. I

ENVIRONMENT & ENERGY MANAGEMENT, NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2009

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RENEWABLE ENERGY

Ireland’s Wind Farms Break 1,000 megawatts Barrier for First Time The amount of electricity generated by Ireland’s wind farms has broken the 1,000 megawatts (MW) barrier for the first time, providing enough power to supply the needs of 650,000 homes. The recent windy conditions resulted in an all-time peak wind output. Ireland has the best general wind resource in Europe and wind farms in Ireland have a higher average output than those on the continent. There are over 90 wind farms on the Irish system which have the capacity to supply

up to a maximum of 1,161 MW at optimum conditions. Ireland is on target to meet its 2010 renewable energy target for electricity consumption of 15%. There is also a significant amount of work being carried out to meet a further target of 40% by 2020. In addition to 1,161MW of wind capacity, Ireland has 238 MW of capacity from hydro stations in counties Cork, Dublin, Donegal and Clare and a further 58 MW of power capacity from landfill gas.

ENERGY MANAGEMENT

Closing by March 3rd, 2010. The Fund volume is targeted at Eur1.5b for final closing in 2011. Set up under Luxembourg law, the Marguerite Fund is a panEuropean equity fund which aims to act as a catalyst for infrastructure investments implementing key EU policies in the areas of climate change, energy security, and trans-European networks. The Fund should serve as a model for the establishment of other similar funds in the EU wishing to combine a marketbased principle of return to investors with the pursuit of public policy objectives. Marguerite is the first joint initiative of Europe’s leading public financial institutions.

€60m Saved on Energy Bills by Large Employers Ireland's largest employers improved their competitiveness by avoiding Eur60m in energy costs in 2008, according to Eamon Ryan TD, Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources, when speaking at the recent Sustainable Energy Ireland (SEI) global conference on energy management. Energy experts from over 20 countries including the US, Japan, Italy and Finland gathered to learn about the success of Ireland's large enterprises in driving substantial energy efficiencies through implementing Ireland's Energy Management Standard. Intel, Diageo, Pfizer, Glanbia and Tesco are amongst the 122 members of SEI's Large Energy Network (LIEN) who collectively reduced their energy costs by Eur60m in 2008. These savings are the latest in a strong trend that has seen some of Ireland's leading companies improve their energy efficiency by 30% on average over the last decade.

New Energy Management Certification Awarded to Baileys Diageo Ireland, the producers of the cream liqueur Baileys, has become the first food and drinks company globally to be awarded EN16001, the new European Energy Management standard. This new standard EN16001 represents the latest best practice in energy management and ensures a systematic approach for improving energy performance continuously. As well as improving energy efficiency, this system can cut costs, drive innovation; reduce GHG emissions and greenhouse gas emissions.

ENERGY SUPPLY

Further Interconnection With Britain is Economically Attractive

INFRASTRUCTURE

Europe’s Leading Financial Institutions Launch ‘Marguerite’

Eamon Ryan TD, Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources.

is scheduled to go live in 2012. At present, the Moyle Interconnector, connecting the electricity grids of Northern Ireland and Scotland, is the only link between the island of Ireland and Great Britain. The report finds that a third 500MW interconnector to Britain would be economically attractive by 2020, and even more so in 2025. A fourth 500MW interconnector between Ireland and Britain would be economically feasible by 2025 in some situations, such as a high renewable energy scenario.

Europe’s leading public financial institutions have launched a panEuropean infrastructure fund with an initial capital of Eur600m and invited other investors to join them in a First

Further electricity interconnection between Ireland and Britain is economically attractive, according to a new report from EirGrid, Ireland’s transmission system operator. The ‘Interconnection Economic Feasibility Report’ examines the possibility of further interconnection between the island of Ireland and Great Britain or France. It also reinforces the strong economic case for the 500MW East-West Interconnector, linking Ireland and Wales. This is currently under development and

ENVIRONMENT & ENERGY MANAGEMENT, NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2009

Dermot Byrne, chief executive of EirGrid.

Donegal County Council Saves 10% on Electricity Costs As part of a major initiative to reduce energy costs and increase energy efficiency across the county, Donegal County Council has switched to Bord 27

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WAVE ENERGY

Queen's University Belfast 'Powers' Global Wave Industry Queen’s University Belfast has helped the global wave energy industry take a major stride forward with the launch of the world’s largest working hydro-electric wave energy device by Aquamarine Power. Known as Oyster, the device has been officially launched at the European Marine Energy Centre (EMEC) in Orkney. It is currently the world’s only hydro-electric wave energy device producing power and is now producing power by pumping high pressure water to its onshore hydro-electric turbine. This will be fed into the National Grid to power homes in Orkney and beyond. A farm of 20 Oysters would provide enough energy to power 9,000 three bedroom family homes. Oyster was first conceived out of work funded by an Engineering and Physical Sciences Research grant to Queen’s between 2002 and 2004, to develop surging power-wave devices. Professor Trevor

Whittaker from Queen’s School of Planning, Architecture and Civil Engineering was the principal investigator and was supported by Dr Matt Folley. Aquamarine Power was formed by a Scottish entrepreneur specifically to develop the technology. Today there is a joint agreement which results in Queen’s undertaking all the hydrodynamic testing for Aquamarine. “Devices such as these have the power to revolutionise the world’s energy industry and help combat climate change. And we aren’t stopping with Oyster. We are continuing to work with our partners in Aquamarine Power and the EMEC to develop the next generation of Oyster, by providing testing opportunities at Queen’s large wave tanks facility in Portaferry which is partfunded through the University’s Institute for a Sustainable World,” explains Professor Whittaker.

Gais Energy for its electricity supply. The switch to Bord Gais Energy, which includes the transfer of supply to 450 separate sites throughout Donegal, will result in significant annual savings for the local authority and will reduce their overall electricity costs by 10%. Bord Gais Energy was awarded the contract, valued at approximately Eur1.5m annually following a highly competitive tender process. This new contract win adds to what has already been a very successful year for Bord Gais Energy. It also follows the recent announcement that over 200,000 residential customers have made the switch to Bord Gais Energy for their electricity supply.

method are that it does not compete with agriculture for land, freshwater, or fertilizer, which means that this method to make biofuels does not have to compete with land used for food purposes. Another advantage is the fact that the method cleans wastewater during the biofuels creation process, which means it can help remediate dead zones. Combining these benefits with algae products such as biofuel, fertilizer, and animal feed, makes this new technology cost-competitive with land-based production methods for algae biofuels.

RENEWABLE ENERGY

funding for the project to over Eur8.5m. Working under the project name ‘STANDPOINT’, the 6company consortium aims to demonstrate that the Wavebob device is the most suitable technology to be adopted as the internationally standardised method of harvesting energy from the ocean waves.

LOW CARBON TECHNOLOGY

EU Says €50 Billion Extra Needed to Develop Low Carbon Technologies

Wavebob Leads €8.5m EU Wave Energy Project

NASA Applies Space Technology to Produce Algae-based Fuel

Irish wave energy technology company Wavebob has announced that the EU FP7 R&D programme is to provide grant aid of Eur5.1m to a consortium led by Wavebob, in order to deploy a full-scale pre-commercial, grid-connected wave energy converter (WEC) off the coast of Portugal. The 6-company consortium will invest a further Eur3.4m, bringing total

NASA has been applying space technology to a process that links the production of algaebased fuel with an inexpensive method of sewage treatment. This is done by growing algae in plastic containers filled with sewage floating in the ocean. NASA has created plastic osmotic containers that grow algae, which produce oil. The benefits of this new

The European Commission has called for substantial additional investment in research in Low Carbon Technologies (LCT). The Commission estimates that an additional investment of Eur50b will be needed over the next 10 years to develop the Low Carbon Technologies necessary to address climate change, secure EU energy supplies and ensure economic growth. This means almost tripling the amount that EU countries currently spend on LCT research, from Eur3b to Eur8b, every year for the next ten

ENVIRONMENT & ENERGY MANAGEMENT, NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2009

years until 2020. “Increasing smart investments in research today is an opportunity to develop new sources of growth, to green our economy and to ensure the EU’s competitiveness when we come out of the crisis,” says EU Commissioner for Science and Research, Janez Potocnik. 80% of European energy requirements are currently met by fossil fuels that are imported into the EU and are the chief culprits in the production of greenhouse gases. Low Carbon Technologies reduce Green House Gas Emissions, are locally produced and less dependent on foreign supplies while also providing employment. A recent study of the Commission concluded that the 20% EU's objective on Renewable Sources is likely to create more than 600,000 additional jobs in the EU, and the RES sector will employ 2.8 million people by 2020.

EU Commissioner for Science and Research, Janez Potocnik.