EirGrid, the operator and developer of the national electricity grid, is calling for final applications for the North Connacht 110 kV project community benefit fund.

With the closing date approaching, local groups are encouraged to apply for the initial phase of the €1.53 million initiative.

This first round makes €612,000 available to volunteer groups and communities situated near the new infrastructure. The fund was created by EirGrid to acknowledge the role of local areas in hosting projects that are essential for strengthening the regional electricity network.

The North Connacht project involves the installation of a new 110 kV underground line across County Mayo and County Roscommon. Once operational, the line will increase grid capacity and facilitate the integration of more renewable energy, providing power for approximately 150,000 homes. Construction is slated to begin in the coming months.

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Funding is accessible to community groups, voluntary organisations, and not-for-profit entities that provide services or programmes within the project area. The total pot will be allocated across three specific streams: biodiversity, sustainability, and community.

The €1.53 million total will be released in three distinct stages: at the start of construction, at the project's mid-point, and upon final completion. To ensure a transparent and inclusive distribution process, the fund is being administered by SECAD, an independent facilitator.

EirGrid and SECAD recently hosted a series of information events across the project region to assist interested parties with the application process.

Sinead Dooley, Head of Public Engagement with EirGrid, said: "In addition to delivering this critical infrastructure to the region, we are committed to leaving a lasting positive impact in local communities through this fund and we're calling on eligible groups to apply before the deadline. We are grateful for all the support that we have received to date, and we were delighted to speak about with communities and volunteer groups recently about how they can apply for this funding. We look forward to seeing what can be achieved through this first phase of funding."

Dooley added: "Engaging with the public is essential for our work. Our independently recognised best-practice Public Engagement Strategy ensures that when we are delivering these critical projects, we engage with local communities and stakeholders to develop relationships on-the-ground, so we can hear everyone's voice."

The deadline for this phase of applications is 5pm on Friday 13 March.