WATERWAY

Our innovative project proposes the development of three pilot small hydroelectric installations along Galway’s canals to generate clean, renewable energy for the city. The project directly supports Galway’s goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050 while addressing critical challenges such as energy dependency, climate resilience, and energy poverty. Each hydroelectric pilot will serve distinct purposes. Beyond energy production, the project focuses on revitalizing underused infrastructure and fostering community ownership. Public engagement is a central pillar, with the community co-creating and taking ownership of the project through initiatives like a competition to name the turbines, educational campaigns, and upskilling programs in renewable energy. Through a comprehensive approach that integrates environmental, social, and economic dimensions, Galway WATERWAY will serve as a model of how cities can harness local resources for climate action while enhancing community engagement and economic resilience. The project is scalable and will offer a replicable framework for other cities looking to innovate in the renewable energy space.