SSE Airtricity has today opened its £4.3 million all-island Community Fund for applications. The initiative aims to empower local communities in Northern Ireland, and right across the island of Ireland, to implement meaningful green projects that contribute to the transition to net zero.
The SSE Airtricity Generation Green Community Fund is part of SSE Airtricity’s commitment to customers and the communities it serves by supporting community led sustainability projects and education for a sustainable future. The fund recently closed a successful consultation phase which generated over 600 submissions from individuals and organisations across Ireland, providing key insights on the types of sustainable initiatives that will deliver most value for communities.
By providing financial assistance to both urban and rural initiatives, SSE Airtricity aims to kick-start and support community driven projects that focus on environmental education, sustainability, and climate action. The fund is particularly aimed at fostering local leadership and promoting social equity, ensuring that all communities, regardless of their size or location, can contribute to Ireland’s sustainable future.
Speaking at the launch of the SSE Airtricity Generation Green Community Fund, First Minister Michelle O’Neill said: “This £4.3 million all-island Community Fund provides an opportunity for communities and organisations to access support for projects aimed at helping them work towards a cleaner and sustainable energy source.
“We all have a role play, whether through education or by helping to grow green projects as organisations or as individuals.”
Klair Neenan, Managing Director SSE Airtricity, echoed First Minister O’Neill’s sentiments: “I’m delighted that the SSE Airtricity Generation Green Community Fund is now open for application. Getting to Net Zero is in everyone’s interest and local communities will be at the heart of the energy transition. Through the consultation phase, we received substantial levels of valuable feedback, which included innovative and vibrant community initiatives from across Northern Ireland, and SSE Airtricity wants to lend our support by powering up their sustainability plans.
“We know that issues like education, biodiversity and infrastructure are big priorities for our local communities, and we understand the hurdles often faced with resourcing and funding. That’s why we’re delighted to invite applications for the fund, and I would really encourage schools, non-
profits, and local community organisations across Northern Ireland, who are focused on sustainability, to apply for financial support and let us assist your efforts.”
Applying to the Generation Green Community Fund
Applications are now invited from local community groups, not for profit organisations, social enterprises and local authorities across the island of Ireland. The funding round is open for applications until [8 weeks from launch date] and will be administered in line with four UN Sustainable Development Goals, across two distinct strands: Education for a Sustainable Future and Community-Led Sustainability Projects. Sustainability initiatives eligible for funding will include:
· STEM and Climate Education
· Green Curriculum and Schools Funding
· Youth Engagement and Innovation
· Community Education and Engagement
· Green Skills and Employability Programmes
· Climate Resilience Planning
· Sustainable Infrastructure Development
· Community Environmental Programmes
· Circular Economy and Waste Reduction Initiatives
· Eco-Friendly Travel Initiatives
Applications for the SSE Airtricity Generation Green Community Fund are now open. To apply for funding for your sustainability initiative or for further information on the terms of the fund, please visit: www.sseairtricity.com/communityfund
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