Cook Medical has announced a €3m investment in renewable and energy-saving technologies.
The project consists of a new one megawatt ground-mounted solar PV array on the grounds of the Limerick site, along with 1.2MW of heat pumps to replace the existing chillers, an upgrade of electronically commutated fans, and a new energy management system.
Increase operational efficiency of the facility
The investment is part of the company’s carbon reduction goals, with the new technologies helping to increase the operational efficiency of the facility in Castletroy and eventually offsetting about 50% of carbon emissions.
This project is expected to offset up to 269 tonnes of carbon annually, and over its 25-year life cycle it will remove a total of 6,725 tonnes of carbon. Coupled with the procurement of additional green energy technologies, this will result in the removal of 60% of the carbon from the Cook Ireland site.
This project is supported by the government through IDA Ireland. Enterprise minister Peter Burke said: “For almost 30 years, Cook Medical has been present in Ireland and today’s announcement of a €3m investment in renewable and energy-saving technologies is fantastic news.
"The combined plans are expected to offset 50% of their carbon emissions, which is in line with the Climate Action Plan to halve Ireland’s emissions by 2030.
"It is really encouraging to see initiatives being taken by companies focused on carbon reduction measures, sustainability and protecting the environment for future generations.”
Bill Doherty, executive vice president and managing director of Cook Medical Europe, said: ‘’We are committed to making sustainable choices across our business and reducing our impact on the environment. By integrating solar panels into our operations, we’re able to enhance our efficiency while also reducing our carbon footprint.”
The company is committed to enhancing and maintaining the biodiversity of its site and will continue to safeguard the environment in its plans. In addition to reseeding native wildflowers in all areas under construction, the company will also preserve walking tracks and spaces for wildlife.
An exemplar
CEO of IDA Ireland Michael Lohan said: “This proposed project will position Cook’s Irish operations as an exemplar with its global network, and as a key location of subject matter expertise around energy management systems.
"Strongly aligned to the National Climate Action Plan’s Enterprise Pillar and IDA Ireland’s sustainability targets, we wish Cook Medical every success with this initiative which has far reaching potential.’’
Upon completion of this project, Cook Ireland will reduce its annual import of electricity by 19% and release that capacity back to the grid. A 70% reduction in the annual use of natural gas consumption is expected from the installation of the heat pumps.
A planning application has been submitted to Limerick City and County Council. If successful, construction on this project is expected to begin in due course.