Women’s charity aided by energy efficiency

A Northern Irish charity which helps women and children is hoping to save £3,600 a year after upgrading its visitor centre with energy efficiency measures. The Belfast-based Footprints Women’s Centre […]

A Northern Irish charity which helps women and children is hoping to save £3,600 a year after upgrading its visitor centre with energy efficiency measures.

The Belfast-based Footprints Women’s Centre installed 40 solar panels, 80 solar thermal tubes for hot water, cavity wall insulation and timer switches on lights in their corridors, toilets and store rooms.

Spending less on energy means there’s more cash to spare for crucial services, according to the charity.

The centre which offers children’s day care, educational training and hosts support for senior citizens and groups like the AA is also set to cut its carbon emissions by 16 tonnes a year.

Cash to install the measures came from the Big Lottery fund which gives lottery money to community groups and projects which improve health, education and the environment.

Northern Ireland’s Environment Minister Mark Durkan was on hand to open the revamped centre.

He said: “In the current financial climate it is more important than ever that we all look for ways in which we can become more resource efficient, thereby reducing costs and the impact on our environment. Launching an energy efficient centre like this showcases what can be achieved when a community works together with dedication and vision to become more sustainable.”

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