SSE Renewables invites local groups to apply to 2024 Cavan and Monaghan Community Fund

As part of its ongoing commitment to supporting local communities, SSE Renewables is pleased to announce the opening of the 2024 Community Fund for Bindoo and Gartnaneane Wind Farms in Co. Cavan, and Mullananalt Wind Farm in Co. Monaghan.

SSE Renewable’s wind-powered community fund aims to empower community groups and facilitate positive change in the region. Through its Bindoo, Gartnaneane and Mullananalt Community Funds, the company makes around €100,000 per annum available for local projects in East Cavan and Monaghan which promote energy efficiency and social sustainability.

In 2022/23, a total of 36 community groups including schools, sports clubs and community centres benefitted from last year’s €96,500 fund, bringing the fund’s overall contribution in the two counties to over €2 million since it launched in 2006.

Community groups within a 20km radius of the wind farms are encouraged to apply. Preference will be given to projects within a 5km radius of each wind farm site. The application period opens on Monday 27 May 2024 and will close at 5 pm on Friday 21 June 2024. 

"At SSE Renewables, we are committed to supporting the communities in which we live and work. Through this Community Fund, we aim to empower grassroots initiatives that contribute to the well-being and sustainability of both Cavan and Monaghan. We encourage all eligible community groups to power change in their local area by applying. Hundreds of groups have benefitted from this fund over the past 18 years. By taking the time to apply you could also help power change in your local community."

Jacqueline Durnin Community Investment Manager at SSE Renewables, emphasised the importance of community involvement

^{Image caption: Recipients of last year’s Cavan and Monaghan Community Fund} 

Eligible community projects include those focused on fostering long-term social, environmental, or economic improvements. This can include community projects which are seeking to optimise energy usage, promote sustainable transportation, improve energy efficiency, reduce energy consumption, transition to electric alternatives, explore renewable energy solutions, minimise waste, and enhance green spaces. Projects which promote regeneration and enhance local infrastructure or seek to improve health and safety standards in existing amenities are also welcome.

SSE Renewables’ three wind farms in counties Cavan and Monaghan have a total generation capacity of 70MW, and produce enough clean, green energy to power over 30,000 homes in the region.

^{Image caption: The Bunnoe Community Enterprise Centre in Cavan was one of the successful beneficiaries of the SSE Renewables 2021/22 fund and received a grant for the installation of an EV charger.}

To apply online, visit sserenewables.com/CavanMonaghanFund.