Program Overview

Community Energy Development (Certificate, L6, 20 ECTS)

Course Overview

The aim of the programme is to develop the knowledge and skills of learners to be able to identify and develop appropriate sustainable energy investment opportunities in their communities, by developing their knowledge of sustainable energy technologies/solutions, relevant funding opportunities and project development techniques. This programme aimed at people from (urban/rural) communities interested in the development of sustainable energy projects and those who are involved in supporting communities to develop sustainable energy projects.

Entry Requirements

• Leaving Certificate: A minimum of 5 Passes in Leaving Certificate subjects, including Mathematics and English/Irish.
• Or
• Applicants who do not meet these requirements but who are aged 23 and over will be considered for entry on the basis of an assessment and, if appropriate, also an interview.
• Equivalence may be demonstrated by an appropriate qualification and significant relevant experience.

Recognised Prior Learning (RPL)

Please review the entry requirements for this programme. If you do not hold these qualifications but would like your application to be assessed under RPL please select YES on the online application form.

HCI Pillar 3 Funding

Applicants must meet the eligibility criteria for the HCI Pillar 3 funding, as set out by the HEA. We would encourage you to read the criteria prior to making an application, to ensure you are eligible to apply.

English Language

Applicants who do not have English as their first Language must ensure they satisfy English Language Requirement. For Entry to undergraduate courses, a minimum score of 5.5 in and IELTS exam is required. For Postgraduate course, a minimum of 6.0 is required.

Modules Outline

Semester 1

• Introduction to Community Sustainable Energy
  • Credits: 10
  • Energy systems
  • Energy principles
  • Energy efficiency principles
  • Renewable energy systems

Semester 2

• Community Sustainable Energy Project Development
  • Credits: 10
  • Policy and legislation
  • Planning and consultation
  • Project Finance and Organisation
  • Project Management
  • Stakeholder Engagement and Mobilisation

Delivery

• Tues 7pm to 9pm – (fortnightly) and 5 on site visits per semester – 2 semesters – (24 weeks)
• The above is an indicative schedule and is subject to change.
• All applicants will require use of a Laptop for the programme.

Time Commitment

• Each 5 credits will normally equate to approximately 100 Total Learning Hours. Total Learning Hours includes the time you spend in class (lectures, tutorials, practical elements) and the time you spend completing work outside of college. The balance between these two varies by discipline, and by level of study. You should bear in mind that the workload will increase at particular times e.g. when assignments are due.

Qualification

• Certificate in Community Energy Development (Special Purpose Award, Level 6, 20 ECTS)

Assessment

• Assessment will be through a range of continuous assessments, which will involve:
  • Case studies
  • Online Quizzes
  • Project reports
  • Final project

Fees

• €1,900 – HCI Pillar 3 funding – Student pays €380 (2025)

Application Deadline

• Closing Date: 15th August 2025.
• Places are allocated on a first come first served basis.
• Course will be closed once the maximum number of applicants is reached.
• Courses run subject to viable numbers.