Templederry trailblazer honoured in Brussels
John Fogarty, a trailblazer in Ireland’s community energy movement and co-founder of Templederry Windfarm and Community Power, has been awarded the Roger Léron Award for Longstanding Achievement by FEDARENE (European Federation of Agencies and Regions for Energy and the Environment).
The award was presented at a special ceremony in Brussels’ historic Théâtre de Vaudeville, marking a proud moment for Ireland and the wider European community energy movement. John has spent over two decades advocating for a transformative vision: that Irish communities not only generate renewable energy but also own and benefit directly from it. His leadership in launching Templederry Windfarm, Ireland’s first community-owned wind farm, and trying to expand that model nationally through Community Power, has been both pioneering and inspirational.
This model of large-scale, citizen-owned renewable energy had never been attempted before in Ireland. Through determination, innovation, and an unwavering belief in community empowerment, John and his community and team are helping local groups across the country to develop solar projects rooted in local ownership and long-term sustainability. The support he has received from communities nationwide over the years has been nothing short of remarkable.
“John’s work has proven that communities have both the capacity and the will to drive the energy transition,” said Seamus Hoyne, Dean of TUS and General Secretary of FEDARENE, who nominated him for the award. “He has shown that local ownership is not just a dream - it’s happening, and it works.”
‘AWARD IS FOR EVERYONE WHO NEVER GAVE UP’
In his acceptance speech, John dedicated the award to the Templederry Windfarm community in Tipperary and the entire Community Power Utility company team based in Nenagh, crediting their persistence, shared vision, and belief in community-led energy. “This award is for everyone who never gave up,” he said. “It belongs to all of us who believe in a future where people and communities are at the heart of Ireland’s energy story.”
Despite the significant progress, John stressed that there is still much work to be done. For Ireland to truly embrace a just and inclusive energy transition, Government support is essential.
“The people of Ireland are ready and willing to take part in the renewable energy revolution - but they must be assisted. We need stronger policies, practical supports, and a national commitment to putting power - literally and figuratively - in the hands of its communities.”
The event also marked a celebration of FEDARENE’s 35th anniversary. Founded in 1990, FEDARENE is the premier European network of regional and local organisations working to advance energy efficiency, renewable energy, and climate action. With over 80 members across 24 countries, FEDARENE supports regional agencies in developing and implementing ambitious policies and projects that accelerate the green transition.
FEDARENE advocates strongly for member states to implement the various provisions in EU Directives to enable establishment of energy communities across Europe. Despite the great work of John Fogarty, Ireland lags behind other EU countries to enabling citizen led energy communities to thrive and develop.
The Roger Léron Award, named after one of FEDARENE’s founders, recognises outstanding contributions to sustainable energy at local and regional levels.
John joins a distinguished list of recipients who have made lasting impacts in climate and energy leadership.
The ceremony brought together a strong Irish delegation, including representatives from Tipperary Energy Agency and Codema, reflecting the growing momentum of community energy across Ireland.