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04 Feb 2026
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04 Feb 2026
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Cllr Beard says the new energy consumption data will allow us to measure the impact of heat loss in defective concrete homes.
Cllr Joy Beard has called on households across Donegal to take part in a data-gathering exercise to compare energy consumption between homes affected by defective concrete blocks and homes that are not affected.
The call follows the rollout of free Home Energy Saving Kits, now available to borrow from local libraries across Donegal from Tuesday, February 10.
The kits allow households to carry out simple energy tests, including identifying heat loss and monitoring electricity usage.
Cllr Beard is encouraging both households living in homes affected by defective concrete blocks and households in homes that are not affected to carry out the tests and submit their findings for analysis.
“This will clearly show how much energy is being wasted in homes affected by defective concrete compared to homes that are not affected. Families have been living with this reality for years, and now we have an opportunity to demonstrate it with real data,” explained the Redress Party Councillor.
“Having results from both affected and unaffected homes is crucial. It allows us to properly analyse the true energy penalty being imposed on DCB families through no fault of their own.”
READ NEXT: Costings for the Defective Block Scheme two years out of date
The Home Energy Saving Kits include tools such as a plug-in energy monitor, thermal leak detector, temperature and humidity meter, radiator key, and fridge and freezer thermometer. The kits can be borrowed free-of-charge by library members for a one-week period.
Cllr Beard said the information gathered will be used to highlight the ongoing financial and energy costs faced by DCB-affected households and to strengthen calls for fairer recognition and supports.
“This is about evidence. If we want meaningful policy change, we need to clearly show the ongoing energy waste and higher running costs that defective concrete continues to cause.”
Kits can be booked by calling 074 9560862 or via email to dmcgeady@donegalcoco.ie
Households who wish to take part are asked to submit their results by email to joybeard@donegalcoco.ie
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