Transformational community projects have been welcomed under the latest round of Galway Wind Park's €300,000 Major Projects Fund.

Co-owners of Galway Wind Park, SSE Renewables and Greencoat Renewables is inviting shovel-ready projects to come forward for funding.

Following feedback from local consultees the Major Projects Fund, which has a typical value of €300,000, will now operate on a bi-annual basis. The fund currently open covers the two years of 2022 and 2023.

The Major Projects Fund offers grant support to not-for-profit community groups that actively promote projects that will aim to stimulate meaningful local regeneration and deliver long-term social, safety, environmental or economic improvements in the community. The most recent fund, which was awarded in 2021, was significantly over-subscribed with a total funding request from the community in excess of €1.2m, demonstrating the depth of community-driven initiatives around Galway Wind Park which can be supported.

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The closing date for applications for this year's Major Projects Fund is Friday 29 April 2022.

John O'Sullivan, SSE Renewables, said: "SSE Renewables is very proud of the work that the Major Projects Fund has already achieved and the quality of works completed from the 2021 funding awards. The successful groups have worked diligently to deliver large scale transformational projects that are delivering lasting legacies to the local area. We look forward to working with the community once again to help develop and deliver projects that can bring a transformational difference to the local area."

Projects applying should be located within 10km of Galway Wind Park and aim to improve or enhance local infrastructure, landscape, biodiversity, heritage, or sports and recreation and make a lasting difference to the places where residents live, work and visit. Awards available will range from €20,000 to €150,000 annually, and certain projects may qualify for multi-year funding.

Patrick Maguire, Investment Manager for Greencoat Renewables, added: "We are delighted to support the second year of the redesigned Major Projects Fund for the community around Galway Wind Park alongside SSE Renewables. As long-term owners of wind farms in rural areas we are keen to support and build strong relationships with the local community through projects like this. The Major Projects Fund offers communities the opportunity to deliver long term sustainable projects which brings value and growth to rural areas which represents true community development."

All applications for the Galway Wind Park Major Projects Fund should contain a clear and concise business proposal with accurate costings, timings and targets, and demonstrate that the proposed development is shovel ready.

Applications will be accepted from not-for-profit community groups within 10km of Galway Wind Park with preference given based on proximity.