A breezy approach to sustainability
MEET THE FINALISTS: BEST GREEN BUSINESS
Sustainability is truly at the heart of Galetech.
“We always put people and the planet first in everything we do,” begins Sarah Magee, Brand and Marketing manager.
With more than 25 years’ experience, the business has built a proven track record of supporting wind, solar and energy storage projects, from initial concept and development through to construction and operation.
Founded in 2000 in Cavan by Donald and Darren Sherry when the wind and solar energy sector was still in its infancy, Galetech has grown to become an international business employing 165+ professionals.
As Galetech grows, they are focussed on helping the communities hosting their projects to grow alongside.
For Sarah, Galetech’s sustainability ethos is best illustrated through the impact on communities in Cavan.
Funding generated through renewable energy projects, such as wind turbines at Carrickallen and Mountainlodge, are shared through their ‘Community Fund’.
Over 75 community projects in the Mountain Lodge area have benefited from €222,000 in funding since 2015; meanwhile in Carrickallen 38 community projects have shared in a funding pot worth €120,000 since 2020.
“Galetech helps communities to make significant changes to protect the environment and champion sustainability through those funds. It’s not just the clean electricity generated, it’s the lasting positive impact created for the people in the places where those projects are.”
A dedicated community liaison officer, Deirdre Keegan, ensures the success of the Community Fund. Amongst the 10 projects to benefit from the latest tranche, they helped Kill Shamrocks GAA to fund a pedestrian bridge over a stream to its training pitch; Dernakesh National School to develop a mud kitchen and seated café area; and Lavey Community First Responders purchase an AED machine.
Galetech are eager to encourage outdoor learning for schools: “We host Turbine Talks, school group visits that give students the opportunity to experience the turbines up close and appreciate their scale first-hand, while learning how they work, what they are made from, and the different skills and people involved in their operation.”
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FULL LIST OF FINALISTS
Read about the other three finalists in this category by visiting the stories below.
Going green – one job at a time in MFM Joinery