The Local Development Companies Network (LDCN) ensures that national climate ambitions connect with local realities. We collaborate with the Department of the Environment, SEAI, local authorities and EU partners to translate strategy into workable, community‑led initiatives. Insights flow upward through our dedicated Climate Action Community of Practice, where development officers, energy mentors and project managers share learning, troubleshoot barriers and identify emerging opportunities.
Many climate measures intersect with employment and inclusion. LDCN therefore draws on parallel forums – such as the SICAP Managers network and the Employment‑focused Communities of Practice (e.g., Tús and Rural Social Scheme coordinators) – to keep climate action integrated with social and economic goals. Strategic direction is set at our quarterly National Council meetings, where LDC Chairs and CEOs review progress and agree joint advocacy positions.
Local Development Companies (LDCs) serve as trusted guides for communities navigating the transition to a low-carbon future. They provide tailored advice to households, farms, and small businesses on energy upgrades, funding opportunities, and choosing suitable suppliers. LDCs also foster green employment by engaging Tús and Rural Social Scheme (RSS) participants in climate-positive roles, such as habitat restoration, conducting community energy audits, or supporting recycling initiatives. In addition, they promote climate literacy and social inclusion through support for community gardens, allotments, and repair cafés, which serve as practical and educational local hubs. By facilitating local energy cooperatives and Sustainable Energy Community (SEC) projects, LDCs ensure that the environmental and economic benefits of these initiatives remain within the community.
Because LDCs already work with marginalised groups, they keep the transition fair—helping low‑income households reduce bills and ensuring rural voices shape policy.
Local Development Companies (LDCs) serve as trusted guides for communities navigating the transition to a low-carbon future. They provide tailored advice to households, farms, and small businesses on energy upgrades, funding opportunities, and choosing suitable suppliers. LDCs also foster green employment by engaging Tús and Rural Social Scheme (RSS) participants in climate-positive roles, such as habitat restoration, conducting community energy audits, or supporting recycling initiatives. In addition, they promote climate literacy and social inclusion through support for community gardens, allotments, and repair cafés, which serve as practical and educational local hubs. By facilitating local energy cooperatives and Sustainable Energy Community (SEC) projects, LDCs ensure that the environmental and economic benefits of these initiatives remain within the community.
Because LDCs already work with marginalised groups, they keep the transition fair—helping low‑income households reduce bills and ensuring rural voices shape policy.
Ireland’s climate targets will only be met if every community is equipped to act. Local Development Companies bring the reach, trust and technical capacity to turn national goals into grassroots momentum—lowering emissions, cutting energy poverty and unlocking green jobs. Through LDCN, their on‑the‑ground experience feeds straight back to policymakers and funders, ensuring that climate policy remains ambitious, practical and socially just.