BnM and ESB have confirmed the latest awards under the Oweninny Wind Farm Educational Scholarship Scheme, allocating €37,500 to six new scholars and bringing the total number of local recipients to 10.

Since the programme launched in 2024, €55,000 has been distributed through the fund, a key element of the wind farm’s community engagement efforts designed to help local students progress in further and higher education.

Each award provides a grant of €2,500 per academic year for up to four years. Applicants must live in the vicinity of the Oweninny Wind Farm to be eligible.

Applications were assessed against set criteria, with particular emphasis on courses in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) and disciplines that contribute to sustainability and align with the UN Sustainable Development Goals. The scheme is open to all third-level and further education programmes from NFQ Level 6 and above.

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The scholarship is funded directly by renewable energy generated at Oweninny Wind Farm and forms part of the broader Community Benefit Fund, which supports a range of local initiatives and schemes each year.

The 2025 recipients are: Seamus McDermott, Shane Mullarkey, James Mullarkey, Zara Moyles, Patrick O'Malley and Eoghan Spencer.

Speaking at the announcement of the scholarship awards, John Reilly, Head of Renewable Energy at BnM said: "We would like to congratulate the latest recipients of the Oweninny Wind Farm Educational Scholarships. This is an essential part of our broader investment into the communities where we operate. We are extremely proud of all of the students we have supported through the programme to date. This investment highlights our ongoing commitment to supporting local students, community groups, and near neighbours, with a focus on education and sustainability."

John Gartland, Manager of Wind Operations at ESB, said: "ESB is delighted to announce the recipients of the Oweninny Wind Farm Educational Scholarship Scheme. This initiative reflects our, and our partner BnM’s, commitment to empowering communities and creating meaningful opportunities for local students. By supporting students in STEM and related fields, we are investing in the skills and knowledge that will drive Ireland's clean energy transition and strengthen communities for generations to come."