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June 2008
Renewable Energy to Power Croke Park

Croke Park will immediately cut its annual carbon emissions by two thirds following the signing today (June 5th) of a "green electricity" agreement with ESB Independent Energy (ESBIE).
The switch to green electricity is Croke Park's first step in the joint Cul Green initiative launched last month by ESB and the GAA to make Croke Park one of the world’s first carbon neutral stadiums.

The GAA agreement with ESB Independent Energy means that Croke Park will be able to cut its carbon emissions from 4,500 tonnes to approx 1,000 tonnes – providing the stadium with electricity that is 100 percent derived from renewable sources.

As part of the agreement ESBIE will supply over 7.5 million Kilowatt Hours of electricity per annum -- the equivalent of powering 1,200 homes. It involves supplying all the electricity needs of Croke Park from its special pitch maintenance lighting, to its 140 square meter stadium screen, its warm-up and changing facilities, hospitality arena and other power requirements.

Cúl Green sets ambitious environmental targets to reduce dramatically the carbon footprint of Ireland’s most popular sporting venue over the next six years. The project involves not just electricity-related emissions but also the stadium’s waste and water management systems.

A stringent energy audit by ESB is currently underway to establish how Croke Park can maximise energy efficiencies and reduce overall energy consumption. This detailed examination will be concluded before the All-Ireland finals in September.

Michael McNicholas, Executive Director, ESBI described the arrangement with Croke Park as highly significant.
"ESB and Croke Park are partnering the development of a carbon neutral facility and this world-class sporting, conference and concert venue has sophisticated and unique power requirements. ESB is meeting its challenges from an environmentally-aware perspective and showcasing our growing expertise in this field." Peter McKenna, Stadium Director Croke Park said, " Croke Park and the GAA are delighted to partner ESB on this excellent initiative and much work has been done to date on moving towards achieving a carbon neutral stadium."

Cúl Green extends beyond the provision of electricity, water and waste at the stadium.
It is estimated that fans travelling to games in Croke Park produce carbon emissions of 15,000 tonnes a year. A new website www.Culgreen.ie will be established by the end of July to allow fans to log on and access ways and means of reducing their carbon footprint.

Fans will also be able to log on to the new dedicated website and make energy-saving pledges which will help Croke Park reach its carbon-neutral targets.

For further information please contact:

John Conlon
ESB Independent Energy
Tel: 01 8867343
Mobile: 0871246779