Limerick's Family Tree Crèche goes solar in sustainable drive

LIMERICK Enterprise Development Partnership’s (LEDP) not-for-profit early years’ service in Roxboro, Family Tree Creche, has installed a new solar panel system.

The development marks a major milestone in their ongoing commitment to sustainability and community development.

The installation is part of the LEDP’s strategic objectives, aiming to embrace the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

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LEDP has already achieved Sustainable Energy Community (SEC) status accredited by SEAI, while continuing to proactively reduce the organisation’s environmental impact whilst inspiring community awareness around climate action.

Established in 2005 by LEDP to provide opportunities for parents on the southside of the city to seek employment, Family Tree Crèche underwent a full refurbishment in 2024.

This latest initiative is part of the service’s ongoing commitment to sustainability, which includes recycling programs, water-saving measures, and outdoor environmental learning experiences.

The new solar energy system will significantly reduce the crèche’s carbon footprint and energy costs, allowing more resources to be directed toward enhancing the learning environment for children and families who use the service.

“This initiative demonstrates how sustainability and social impact can go hand in hand,” said Niamh Cagney, manager of Family Tree Crèche.

“As a not-for-profit service, every euro we save through renewable energy goes straight back into the service and the community we serve. We are excited to empower our children to understand the importance of caring for our planet,” she said.

In addition to the installation of solar PV, LEDP has planted over 18,000 native Irish trees across Limerick and implemented various other green initiatives, including the eradication of fossil fuel use.

To celebrate this achievement, Family Tree Crèche will host a Solar Celebration Day with the children and families, featuring fun, educational activities designed to teach the next generation about renewable energy and caring for the planet.