Final call for applications to Mountlucas Community Gain Scheme
Just over €104,000 will be distributed this year as part of the ongoing Bnm (formerly Bord na Mona) Mountlucas Wind Farm Community Gain Scheme. And this week, BnM has issued a reminder to local community organisations in the vicinity of the Wind Farm that the deadlione for applications for the 2026 scheme is fast approaching on Friday, April 10.
Since Mountlucas wind farm opened in 2014, BnM renewable energy projects across north Offaly have provided nearly €2m in support for community groups, near neighbours and scholarship schemes, distributing funds to community and voluntary groups, non-profit groups, clubs and societies, or organisations with a charitable status which aim to deliver community good and services in the vicinity of the wind farm.
Community organisations that received funding in the 2025 scheme included North Offaly Community Development’s Meals on Wheels service, Walsh Island Shamrocks, Daingean National School, Offaly School of Special Education, and the Molesworth Bridge Playground.
BnM administers the scheme with a Fund Awards Committee drawn from the local communities of Daingean, Mountlucas and Walsh Island. This local committee decides which projects are granted financial support. Since the launch of the Mountlucas Wind Farm Community Gains Scheme in 2014, over €1m of funding has been committed to local community groups. The funding has benefited schools, sports clubs, general amenity, social initiatives, as well as community facilities to date.
BnM’s CSR Manager Alison Tilley said: "We are really looking forward to working with the local communities on the delivery of projects which will benefit the people living near to the wind farm. BnM is committed to ensuring that local communities benefit from the development of renewable energy infrastructure projects in their area, which are needed to ensure Ireland’s energy security. Our team will continue to work closely with the local community in the rollout of the scheme and are eager to hear from anyone with project ideas.”
The closing date for applications is 5pm on April 10. Applicants can learn more about the fund and how to apply by visiting www.mountlucaswindfarm.ie
Applicants requiring help or support with their application can contact the project team via Mountlucaswindfarm@bnm.ie with their enquiries, or alternatively call the Community Liaison specialists, Niall Donlon on 087 9951174 or Padraig Carty on 087 0643734.