Brewing a sustainable future with EENergy

As businesses face growing environmental challenges and rising energy costs, adopting energy-efficient and sustainable practices has become essential for long-term success.

In the brewing industry, where energy consumption is high, reducing environmental impact is not only a responsibility but a smart business move. 9 White Deer Brewery, located in Baile Bhúirne, West Cork, showcases how embracing sustainability can lead to both environmental and financial benefits.

A heritage of sustainability

Founded in 2014 by Gordon and Sinéad Lucey, 9 White Deer Brewery draws inspiration from the local legend of Saint Gobnait, who established an abbey in the area after encountering nine white deer. This deep connection to local heritage underlines the brewery’s commitment to tradition and sustainability.

“At 9 White Deer Brewery, sustainability isn’t just an option - it’s our responsibility. Thanks to EENergy, we’re able to push boundaries, innovate, and reduce our impact on both the local and global environment.”

Gordon Lucey, Managing Director at 9 White Deer

The EENergy Project: A boost for sustainability

At 9 White Deer Brewery, sustainability has always been at the heart of what they do. Learning about the EENergy project, they saw the opportunity to align with their mission to reduce environmental impact while maintaining quality.

“At Enterprise Europe Network, we often see SMEs with big plans but limited funds. The EENergy project offers a unique chance for businesses to receive financial support for energy efficiency improvements, along with personalised guidance from our sustainability advisors,” Monica Valdes, EEN Advisor at Cork Chamber.

The EENergy is an initiative that offered grants of up to €10,000 to help SMEs improve energy efficiency. The project was launched in two separate calls in 2024. As part of the Enterprise Europe Network (EEN) through Cork Chamber, the initiative supported businesses in creating and implementing energy-saving action plans. Participating SMEs had to develop and implement a detailed action plan that targeted a minimum 5% improvement in energy efficiency to qualify for the grant.

With guidance from EEN Cork Chamber, 9 White Deer Brewery developed an action plan and conducted a sustainability assessment, identifying key steps to reduce energy consumption. It was a straightforward process, with the brewery appreciating its streamlined approach and emphasis on measurable outcomes. Thanks to this support, the brewery was awarded the EENergy grant in June 2024, enabling them to accelerate their sustainability initiatives with financial backing and expert guidance.

Energy efficiency initiatives

To reduce their carbon footprint and energy consumption, 9 White Deer Brewery used the EENergy grant to install a nitrogen generator. Traditionally, the brewery relied on purchasing nitrogen and CO2 in tanks, an energy-intensive and costly process. Producing CO2 alone required 38,188 kWh of energy. With the new generator, energy consumption dropped to 10,271 kWh, with 39% self-produced. This investment has significantly reduced both energy use and CO2 emissions.

EENergy is part of a broader sustainability effort. In 2024, the brewery invested €50,000 solar in photovoltaic (PV) panel installation, which supplies 39% of the brewery’s electricity needs. The brewery is committed to continuous improvement and plans to enhance energy efficiency in its production processes, implement thermal energy storage, and reduce its reliance on gas for steam generation.

Sustainability as a smart business strategy

For 9 White Deer Brewery, sustainability is not just an ethical obligation—it’s also a smart business strategy. With rising energy costs and the pressure to lower carbon emissions, investing in renewable energy and energy-efficient technology helps the brewery stay competitive while achieving long-term savings.

The EENergy project has helped the brewery to accelerate this transition, supporting them in making meaningful and lasting changes to their business. Every pint produced at 9 White Deer Brewery brings them closer to a cleaner, greener brewing industry while staying true to their core values of quality, dedication, and sustainability.