SSE and Greencoat Renewables have opened the 2026 Galway Wind Park Community Fund, making approximately €200,000 available to back initiatives that deliver lasting benefits for local people.

Community groups across Connemara and nearby areas are invited to apply. Funding is open to organisations located within 20km of Galway Wind Park, with priority given to projects within 5km. Applications close on Wednesday 8 July 2026.

Established in 2018, the Galway Wind Park Community Fund distributes around €400,000 each year through three streams: the Local Community Fund, the Major Projects Fund and the Scholarship Fund. It supports projects that provide long-term social, educational, environmental and recreational benefits. So far, more than €3.16 million has been awarded to local organisations and projects, including schools, sports clubs, community centres and voluntary groups across the region.

Among last year's recipients was Cullinamuck National School, which secured support to install a polytunnel on its grounds.

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Joanne O'Donoghue, Principal of Cullinamuck National School, said: "Thanks to the Galway Wind Park Community Fund, our school was able to install a polytunnel. This is far more than a place to grow vegetables; it has become a living classroom where children can learn through touch, sight, smell and exploration. It has created opportunities for hands-on learning that simply cannot be replicated indoors. We also aim to develop our sensory garden with more features to enhance this interactive learning environment including sound installations, a mud kitchen and sand pit. This invaluable investment has truly transformed our school community. Now, every pupil, including those with special educational needs has access to a dynamic, hands-on learning space."

Anne Reynolds, Community Investment Manager for SSE Renewables, said: "The Galway Wind Park Community Fund continues to make a real difference to communities across Connemara and the surrounding areas, supporting projects that enhance local facilities, create opportunities and bring people together. Since 2018, the fund has invested more than €3.16 million in community initiatives, and we are delighted to open applications once again for 2026. We encourage eligible groups to apply and look forward to supporting projects that will deliver lasting benefits for local communities."

David Dunne, Asset Manager at Greencoat Renewables, said: "Greencoat Renewables' commitment to a sustainable future extends beyond the renewable energy we generate. We are committed to continuing to support projects in the vicinity of Galway Wind Park that can bring a transformational difference to communities."

Apply for the 2026 Galway Wind Park Local Fund at: www.sserenewables.com/galwayfund