Large crowd attends credit union's 'Go Green Expo' in Athlone

The West-Midlands Credit Union 'Go Green Expo', held on Sunday, March 1 at the Radisson Blu hotel, Athlone, proved to be a resounding success, drawing a large crowd from across Athlone and the wider region.

The strong turnout and high level of engagement throughout the afternoon highlighted the growing appetite locally for practical, affordable green home energy solutions.

The free community event brought together a diverse range of exhibitors showcasing solar panels and renewable energy systems, electric vehicles, insulation upgrades, energy-efficient windows, green heating technologies, and tailored green finance options.

Attendees had the opportunity to speak directly with local providers, compare solutions, and gain expert advice on making their homes and transport more energy efficient.

A particular highlight of the day was the expert panel discussion featuring the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI), which provided detailed guidance on the wide range of grants and supports currently available to homeowners. There was significant interest in how these incentives can help reduce upfront costs and accelerate the transition to more sustainable living.

The expo also marked the presentation of the completed Energy Master Plan for Athlone, a strategic roadmap outlining opportunities to improve energy efficiency, reduce carbon emissions, and expand renewable energy use across homes, businesses, community buildings, and public services in the town.

West-Midlands Credit Union was delighted to welcome local Councillors John Dolan and Frankie Keena to the Expo on the day. Both Councillors expressed strong interest in the Energy Master Plan and engaged with exhibitors and community members about the practical steps needed to support the transition to a low-carbon future.

Speaking after the event, Michael Ryan, Chair of the Board of West-Midlands Credit Union, acknowledged that the level of attendance and engagement at the Go Green Expo clearly demonstrated that the community "is ready to embrace sustainable change".

"People are actively seeking reliable information, trusted local providers, and practical financial supports to help them make greener choices. As a community-focused credit union, we are proud to play our part in making those choices more accessible and affordable," Mr Ryan said.

Supporting that transition is the Credit Union’s Greenify Home Improvement Loan and Greenify Transport Loan, designed specifically to make sustainable upgrades and low-emission transport more attainable for members.

Whether funding insulation and solar installations or making the switch to an electric vehicle, the tailored loan options provide competitive, flexible finance to help spread the cost of investment.

Ronan Lally, Chief Credit Officer of West-Midlands Credit Union, said he was aware that while many people wanted to improve their home’s energy efficiency or move to an electric vehicle, "the upfront cost can be a barrier".

"Our Greenify loans are designed to remove that barrier, offering affordable, flexible finance that empowers members to take practical climate action while also reducing long-term energy and fuel costs," Mr Lally stated.

For more about the Greenify loan options, you can drop into any West-Midlands Credit Union branch or visit www.wmcu.ie