Ten participants graduated on Sunday, February 9, 2025, from a self-build wind turbine training course in Lisnamult, Roscommon, designed to help local communities mitigate energy cost uncertainty and build climate resilience. The inaugural programme was organised jointly by Roscommon County Council’s Climate Action Team and the Galway and Roscommon Education Training Board (GRETB), with funding provided through the Just Transition Fund programme.
Programme Structure and Technical Skills
The training ran over four separate weekends across December 2024 and January 2025 at the GRETB centre in Lisnamult, according to regional reports. Participants learned to construct a domestic wind turbine from scratch utilizing the Hug Piggott turbine design. The curriculum covered a wide range of practical proficiencies, including basic woodwork, metalwork, and electrical skills. Instruction formed part of a broader local training initiative that also encompasses electric vehicle (EV) repair and maintenance courses, managed in partnership between the local authority and GRETB.
Community Resilience and Funding
The initiative aims to raise resilience against climate change impacts and equip attendees with foundational skills for potential careers in the renewable energy sector. Barry Tapster, Climate Action Officer with Roscommon County Council, noted that recent disruptions underscored the practical value of local energy generation. According to Mr. Tapster, none of the participants were immune to the effects of Storm Éowyn, which caused widespread power outages across the region. The project is co-financed through Government of Ireland and European Union resources via the Just Transition Fund, with scheduled classes running in partnership with GRETB until the end of March 2026. A subsequent wind turbine course is scheduled to begin in March.
Institutional Backing and Future Outlook
Sinead Morgan, Director of Further Education and Training at GRETB, commended the collaborative effort behind the program. Ms. Morgan stated that the rollout highlights the board’s commitment to delivering education that fosters a green, circular, and low-carbon economy. Organizers confirmed that regular training cycles will continue under the joint partnership, providing ongoing opportunities for residents seeking to harness alternative energy sources cost-effectively and safely.
