Aurivo Invests €12 Million in Renewable Energy for Dairy Facility
Aurivo Co-operative Society has announced a €12 million investment in a wood pellet burner and boiler system at its Dairy Ingredients facility in Ballaghaderreen. This investment is co-funded by the Shared Island Sustainability Capital Grant scheme, which is delivered by Enterprise Ireland, InterTradeIreland, and Invest Northern Ireland. The project is expected to reduce the facility's carbon emissions by approximately 7,500 tonnes of CO₂ annually.
The new system will replace a significant portion of the fossil fuels currently consumed on-site with renewable biomass, sourced locally from sustainably certified wood pellets. This shift is expected to provide greater certainty in energy costs while enhancing the long-term competitiveness of Aurivo's dairy operations. Additionally, the project will support local employment opportunities in construction, engineering, and the supply chain.
Minister of State for Small Business, Retail and Employment, Alan Dillon T.D, commented on the significance of the investment at a recent event, highlighting the role of strategic partnerships in accelerating industrial climate action and regional economic resilience. Donal Tierney, CEO of Aurivo, emphasized the transformative impact of the investment on reducing the carbon footprint of their operations.
The Shared Island Sustainability Capital Grant is part of the larger Shared Island Enterprise Scheme, which aims to support sustainable enterprise across the island of Ireland. In February 2024, Ireland's government allocated €30 million towards this initiative, further driving economic collaboration and growth in the region.
Richard Kennedy, Chair at InterTradeIreland, stated that this investment signifies a major step forward in sustainable growth and highlights the positive impact of economic collaboration through the grant scheme. Tom Cusack, Head of Food and Sustainability at Enterprise Ireland, praised the innovative approach of Aurivo in supporting the transition to a low-carbon economy.
