EirGrid, the state-owned operator and developer of Ireland's national grid, has established a €600,000 community benefit fund for communities along the Clashavoon Dunmanway electricity line.

The development, which went live last September, is a 40km-long 110 kV line connecting substations in Clashavoon, north east of Macroom, and Dunmanway. It reinforces the security of electricity supply in the area and facilitates the connection of new sources of renewable energy.

The Clashavoon Dunmanway Community Benefit Fund will provide funding to projects proposed by local charities, community groups and not-for-profit organisations situated close to the line.

"We are always grateful for local support and understanding when we develop the grid"

Sinead Dooley, head of engagement at EirGrid, said: "We are really looking forward to working with the local community to enhance the area with this potentially transformative fund. We are always grateful for local support and understanding when we develop the grid.

“We establish community benefit funds to recognise and acknowledge the communities that host Ireland's vital electricity infrastructure. Our agriculture liaison officer, Sean Kenny and community liaison officer, Eoghan O’Sullivan will continue to work closely with the local community in the rollout of the fund and are eager to hear from anyone with project ideas.”

To ensure that the fund is administered fairly EirGrid has appointed independent consultancy M.CO as the fund administrator. M.CO will bring strong strategic insight into setting up the fund, encouraging collaboration and partnership with stakeholders.

M.CO, in partnership with EirGrid, will next week begin engaging with communities in the area and local groups will also be invited to participate in a community forum to advise on the roll out of the fund. 

Anyone interested in the fund can contact Eoghan O’Sullivan on 087 247 7732 or Sean Kenny on 085 708 9595 for more information.