Ray MacSharry Park upgrades pitch lighting
Ray MacSharry Park in Cranmore, Co. Sligo was founded in the 1930s with the aim of fostering and promoting football at every level from U17 boys and girls to amateur women's and men's teams.
As of 2023, it is home to 37 different football teams with adults and young people benefiting from the pitches.
The project
Prior to carrying out works, the park experienced very high running costs due to inefficient lighting systems.
They received advice and the grant from SEAI and also received a grant from Sligo County Council.
They decided to install new LED lighting that illuminate half the pitch, and a dimming system which has increased safety, comfort and visibility.
The project was coordinated by LeeTherm.
The introduction of the LED lights are a brilliant addition to the already fine facility at MacSharry Park. The lights are on a completely different level to what was used before proving much more popular with our players while also enhancing the viewing experience for spectators on a game night. It's also great to know how much less these lights cost to run while at the same time making a contribution to the environment.
Results
Several clubs have made the park their home fixture grounds and local charities are using the grounds more regularly.
The park's energy usage costs dropped by approximately 40% with their carbon footprint being cut in half as a result of the works.
The project cost €42,120 in total. SEAI funded 50% of it as a not-for-profit project, which amounted to €24,051.
The park has saved €7,779 in electrical energy and 3,907kg in carbon to date.
SEAI's community supports
This project was a recipient of a SEAI community grant. SEAI provides a range of additional community supports including free mentoring, technical supports and funding. In addition to grant funding, projects are able to apply for energy credits.
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