EnergyCloud NI launches first project with Northern Ireland Housing Executive

The initiative, which was announced as part of a collaboration with Northern Ireland Housing Executive, will enable up to 20 families in Omagh to receive free tanks of hot water from surplus renewable energy.

Housing Executive homes in Omagh, due to benefit, have already been equipped with an EnergyCloud enabled smart device. 

The device allows the use of surplus renewable energy, which would otherwise be wasted, to heat immersion tanks.

In 2024 alone 915 GWh of zero carbon energy from wind energy was dispatched down across Northern Ireland. Analysis from EnergyCloud NI indicates that this renewable energy had the capacity to heat approximately 305 million tanks of hot water. 

Redeployment of this energy to heat hot water in homes will enable tangible savings for families at risk of fuel poverty.

This collaborative project has also been supported by SONI, NIE Networks, Budget Energy, Click Energy and SSE Airtricity.

Chair of EnergyCloud NI, Jamie Delargy, welcomed the project and said: 

“At EnergyCloud, we believe that access to affordable, sustainable energy is not just a must for the environment, but a fundamental social need. 

“Too many families across Northern Ireland struggle to afford the energy they require, while at the same time, vast amounts of renewable electricity are wasted due to curtailment. 

“The solution is clear: by directing surplus wind and solar energy to those in fuel poverty, we can make a real and lasting impact on people’s lives. 

"The support of key energy partners such as Budget Energy, Click Energy and SSE Airtricity is crucial to the success of this project.”

Robert Clements, Head of Sustainable Development for the Housing Executive added: 

“We are pleased to work with EnergyCloud NI on their first project in Northern Ireland.

“Not only will this project generate savings in fuel bills for our tenants, it will also support our significant efforts to address the impact of climate change and improve sustainability. 

“In our Corporate Sustainable Development Strategy and Action Plan (2022-2027) we outline our commitment to influencing future best practice through innovation and collaboration, and this project has provided a prime opportunity.”

Also in attendance at the launch event were representatives from National Energy Action NI, RenewableNI and electricity provider partners. 

"Budget Energy, a Flogas Ireland Group company, is proud to partner with Northern Ireland Housing Executive and EnergyCloud on this vital initiative. 

“By harnessing surplus renewable energy, we can help households combat fuel poverty and build a more sustainable future," said Lesley Robinson, Operations Director Budget Energy and Flogas Ireland. 

Andy Porter, Managing Director at Click Energy, said: 

“Click Energy are delighted to play a role in the launch of EnergyCloud Northern Ireland, and we hope the innovative initiative makes a positive difference to those living in fuel poverty."

Chair of EnergyCloud NI, Jamie Delargy concluded: 

“Addressing the issue of surplus energy and fuel poverty requires a collaborative approach, and EnergyCloud Northern Ireland stands ready to work alongside government, housing providers, and energy partners to ensure real, lasting change. 

"We will aim to ensure that as many households as possible are able to benefit from surplus renewable energy. 

“This initial project with the Housing Executive is the start of an exciting partnership and we expect to launch further collaborations shortly.”