Thirty community-led initiatives across West Limerick and North Kerry will share over €500,000 from SSE's wind farm community funds, bringing total regional support to more than €3.75m since 2008.

The latest awards are drawn from the Athea, Dromada, Rathcahill, Tournafulla and Lenamore wind farms operated by SSE Renewables, and are intended to back community projects that deliver positive, long-term benefits.

This year's programme totals almost €510,000 and is split across two funding streams: the Local Community Fund for smaller, locally focused initiatives, and a newly introduced Major Projects Fund designed to support larger, high‑impact proposals.

Around €160,000 is being allocated to 23 community group projects, with more than €350,000 going to seven Major Project applicants. The Major Projects funding has also helped recipients unlock a further €2 million in match finance from external partners and local fundraising.

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Among the larger awards, Killeedy Eco Park has received over €23,000 to create a sustainable outdoor classroom within the park. Built using environmentally friendly materials, the facility will provide an inclusive learning space that supports education, climate awareness and biodiversity, while enhancing the park's long‑term sustainability.

Jack O'Connor, PRO of Killeedy Eco Park, said: "We are proud to advance the next phase of development at Killeedy Eco Park. This investment in a sustainable outdoor classroom builds on our earlier projects, including an off‑grid solar PV system and outdoor recreational equipment, and strengthens our commitment to climate action, renewable energy and the long‑term sustainability of the park – ensuring it remains a safe and welcoming space for future generations."

Other supported projects include solar PV installations, battery storage systems and energy‑efficiency upgrades for community facilities, helping organisations to cut emissions, reduce operating costs and reinvest savings into essential services.

SSE Renewables, one of Ireland's largest developers and operators of renewable energy, says it aims to share the value of its projects with host communities.

Jacqueline Durnin, Community Investment Manager at SSE Renewables, said: "At SSE Renewables, we are committed to supporting the communities closest to our operations and to empowering locally led projects that make a long lasting difference. The West Limerick and North Kerry Community Fund continues to support initiatives that strengthen local resilience, promote climate action and enhance quality of life. It is encouraging to see such a strong pipeline of ambitious projects that will deliver lasting benefits for communities across the region."