McKeon Group successfully delivered a comprehensive deep energy retrofit at St Patrick’s National School in Slane as part of the RePowerEU Pathfinder Programme
Project team
Main Contractor
McKeon Group
client
St Patrick’s National School, Slane
Overview
The project was designed to significantly enhance the building’s energy performance, thermal comfort and long‑term sustainability while maintaining the safe and continuous operation of a busy primary school.
The completed works achieved a 50 per cent improvement in overall energy efficiency alongside a 51 per cent reduction in carbon emissions, successfully bringing the school to its target Building Energy Rating of B1. The retrofit has delivered lasting environmental benefits while creating a more comfortable and efficient learning environment for staff and pupils.
The Challenge
McKeon Group was appointed as Project Supervisor Construction Stage and was responsible for overseeing all site activities, managing health and safety compliance and coordinating the full supply chain throughout the project. A key priority was minimising disruption to the school community. To achieve this, the most invasive elements of the works were carefully programmed and completed during the summer holiday period, supported by phased planning and ongoing communication to ensure the school remained safe, operational and fully informed at all times.
The Delivery
The retrofit works involved extensive upgrades to the building fabric, mechanical, electrical and ventilation systems, supported by associated general and enabling works. Building fabric improvements included installing new aluminium windows and doors, along with timber windows and doors in the original school block, ensuring sensitivity to the building’s existing character. Internal timber linings, cills and facings were installed, roof lights were fully replaced, and a new insulated flat roof system was introduced. Thermal performance was further enhanced by installing internal wall insulation and pumped cavity wall insulation throughout the building.
Mechanical upgrades delivered a modern and efficient heating solution aligned with the school’s decarbonisation objectives. These works included installing low‑temperature hot-water air-source heat pumps for both space heating and domestic hot water, alongside an LPG gas boiler as part of a hybrid heating strategy. The heating system was supported by a complete upgrade of the boiler house, incorporating new buffer vessels, pump sets and a low-loss header, all fully integrated through a building management system. New pipework distribution and radiators were installed throughout the school to ensure consistent and controllable heat delivery.
Electrical improvements included installing a new low‑voltage distribution system and a full LED lighting upgrade across the school. Intelligent lighting controls were introduced to improve usability and efficiency, while a complete emergency lighting system enhanced safety. Small power installations and containment upgrades were also carried out to support the school’s ongoing operational needs. Together, these upgrades provide improved control, reliability and long‑term efficiency.
To further enhance indoor air quality and energy recovery, Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery systems were installed, including both floor‑standing and ceiling‑mounted units. These systems now deliver fresh, tempered air throughout the building while recovering heat that would otherwise be lost.
General and supporting works included groundworks and civil adjustments, builder’s works to facilitate mechanical and electrical installations and all associated painting, patching and reinstatement. These elements were completed with careful attention to visual coherence, durability and compliance with school safety requirements.
The Outcome
The success of the project was driven by proactive planning, clear communication and strong collaboration between all stakeholders. McKeon Group’s on‑site management team worked closely with the design team, the school principal and staff and specialist supply chain partners to ensure seamless coordination throughout the programme. This collaborative approach enabled smooth delivery, high standards of workmanship and the successful achievement of all performance targets under the RePowerEU programme.
McKeon Group is proud to have delivered a high‑impact retrofit that significantly improves comfort, safety and sustainability at St Patrick’s National School, creating a healthier and more energy‑efficient environment for current and future generations of students.
“McKeon Group delivered a high-quality deep energy retrofit at St. Patrick’s National School, Slane, with professionalism, care and a clear understanding of how a busy…
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