National electricity grid operator, EirGrid, has announced the award of €153,450 to community groups and not-for-profit organisations in Laois and Kilkenny in Phase 2 of its Community Benefit Fund initiative.

Coming in conjunction with the upgrade and reinforcement of the local electricity grid, the fund totals €511,500 across three instalments.

This latest instalment of benefit sharing represents 30% of the total fund, with successful applicants in Ballinakill, Ballyouskill, Ballyragget, Rosconnell, Spink and Timahoe all receiving funding.

This fund displays EirGrid's commitment to supporting local communities throughout the lifetime of its projects, specifically those situated along the line between Coolnabacky in Co Laois and Ballyragget, Co Kilkenny.

The programme centres on providing grants to community groups, not-for-profit organisations and social enterprises which strive to positively impact the area they are located in.

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In a similar way to Phase 1, projects which could demonstrate these potential benefits were eligible for funding in this second phase, with priority given to those within three kilometres of the development.

This phase of funding will enable community infrastructure upgrades for social and sports hubs, while also supporting local culture and heritage, as well as environmental and sustainability initiatives.

"We acknowledge the vital part that local communities play in facilitating and supporting this critical grid development," said Sinead Dooley, EirGrid's Head of Public Engagement.

"That is why we are committed to ensuring that the benefits are widespread and enduring.

"Along with supporting social and economic growth through enhanced infrastructure, EirGrid's focus is to provide direct benefits to communities closest to new infrastructure. This is clear to see through the variety of groups all across Laois and Kilkenny who will benefit from this latest phase of funding."

To ensure that these grants are distributed in a transparent, participatory and inclusive manner, independent facilitator M-CO is responsible for administering the fund.

M-CO, who are experienced in collaborating with communities and organisations, have been working closely with community forum members to develop criteria which best meets the needs of local residents.

Additional supports for applicants are available across each phase, and come in the form of information evenings, one-to-one project development meetings, and grant application workshops.

All details regarding the Laois-Kilkenny Community Benefit Fund are available at eirgrid.ie/Laois-Kilkenny, along with further information about the project at large.