A new initiative has been launched to help Lisnaskea and other communities create their own sustainable energy strategies.

The Sustainable Energy Communities NI (SEC NI) Project was created by a group of organisations, led by Advice NI, in response to rising energy costs and the need for climate action.

The project is supported by The National Lottery and aims to reduce fuel poverty, enhance energy efficiency, and contribute to Northern Ireland's Net Zero targets.

Lisnaskea is one of four communities that will be supported to create and implement their own energy strategies, with the other communities being Mount Vernon Belfast, Ballymacash Lisburn, and Dolmens, Co. Down.

A recent Fuel Poverty Coalition report estimated that 41 per cent of households in Northern Ireland are impacted by fuel poverty, with those on the lowest incomes and in the least efficient homes being hit hardest.

Kevin Higgins, head of policy at Advice NI, said: "The SEC NI Project represents a critical step forward in how we address energy challenges in Northern Ireland.

"By empowering communities to take the lead in developing and implementing their own energy strategies, we are giving them the tools to make informed decisions that will not only reduce fuel poverty and improve energy efficiency but also contribute to our collective goal of achieving Net Zero by 2050."

The SEC NI Project will follow a structured three-phase process: Learn, Plan, and Do.

Kieran Kelly of Lisnaskea Community Enterprises, Fermanagh, said: "The SEC NI Project aligns perfectly with our commitment to sustainability and community engagement.

"We are keen to work with the three other pilot Sustainable Energy Communities and the project partners to develop a sustainable energy future for everyone in our community."

Kate Beggs, Northern Ireland director at The National Lottery Community Fund, said: “This project embodies community-driven change, empowering local residents to take control of their energy needs, address energy poverty, improve their own resilience and contribute to the fight against climate change.”