Applications Now Open for the Ballymoneen Solar Farm Community Benefit Fund

Ireland

Power Capital Renewable Energy is pleased to announce that applications are now open for the Ballymoneen Solar Farm Community Benefit Fund, a new long term funding program designed to ensure that communities neighbouring the solar farm experience real and tangible benefits from the development.

Approximately €230,000 is available to support local community projects in the Fund’s first year, with funding becoming available annually over the 15-year lifetime of the Fund. The Fund has been established as part of the Renewable Electricity Support Scheme (RESS) and aims to deliver meaningful and lasting benefits for local communities.

Located across approximately 140 hectares in the townlands of Ballymoneen and Grange East in Co. Galway, Ballymoneen Solar Farm will generate renewable electricity equivalent to the needs of approximately 22,000 homes and is expected to offset approximately 30,000 tonnes of CO₂.

The Fund Strategy was shaped through consultation with local residents, stakeholders and community groups. Feedback highlighted priorities including community and sports facilities, safe outdoor spaces, pedestrian safety, shared community spaces, and initiatives supporting health, wellbeing and community life.

"We are delighted to open the first round of the Ballymoneen Solar Farm Community Benefit Fund. The Fund represents a long term investment in the communities neighbouring the solar farm, and we want to ensure that the benefits of the project are felt locally over the years ahead. The Fund Strategy has been shaped by what we heard directly from the local community, and we hope to support projects that respond to those needs and deliver meaningful, visible and lasting benefits for local people. We would encourage community groups and organisations in the area to consider the opportunities the Fund could provide and to get involved in this first round of funding."

Carole Ann Clarke

People, Culture, Community & Communications, Power Capital Renewable Energy

The Fund will be overseen by a Fund Committee which includes local volunteer representatives, helping to ensure the community has an ongoing voice in how the funding is invested locally.

Key Dates

Community Information Session

A Community Information Session will take place at Cregmore Park Golf Club on Tuesday, 20 October 2026 from 7:00pm to 8:30pm.

Local groups can learn more about the Fund, discuss project ideas and receive guidance on the application process.

M-CO has been appointed as Fund Administrator and will support local groups and organisations throughout the application process. For assistance, contact: