Galway Wind Park
Located in Connemara’s Cloosh Valley, Galway Wind Park is one of Ireland’s largest onshore wind farms, generating enough renewable energy to power every home in Galway city and county.
Jointly owned by SSE Renewables and Greencoat Renewables, Galway Wind Park operates one of the largest Community Benefit Funds in the country making over €400,000 available annually to support local not-for-profit groups and individuals via its Community Fund, Major Projects Fund, and Scholarship Fund.
The annual Community Fund represents around 50% of the Fund, supporting projects that focus on energy efficiency, environmental sustainability, social sustainability, recreation and tourism, and education and skills development.
In addition to the Community Fund, the biennial Major Projects Fund, supports larger-scale projects in the area, and an annual Scholarship Fund is available for local students to support them on their third level education journey.
As one of Ireland's largest, the 174MW Galway Wind Park is capable of generating enough renewable energy to power around 140,000 homes, while offsetting over 175,000 tonnes of harmful carbon emissions annually.
Projects supported by the Fund
Enhancing Community Space - €10,600 awarded
As part of a broader community enhancement initiative, a transformative project is underway to develop a vibrant, inclusive public park in Leitir Móir, located along the Galway section of the Wild Atlantic Way. With funding awarded by Galway Wind Park Local Fund, Coiste Páirc Spraoi Leitir Móir is delivering a project that integrates sustainable infrastructure with cultural and environmental enrichment.
Aligning with the UN Sustainable Development Goal 7: Affordable and Clean Energy, a key feature of the project includes the installation of low-level pathway lighting powered by a ground-mounted solar PV array. This innovative approach not only improves safety and accessibility for park users, but also highlights the community's commitment to renewable energy and climate conscious design.
The park is expected to benefit over 20,000 people annually, including Leitir Móir’s 2,500 residents, visitors from across Connemara, and a surge of summer tourists. More than just infrastructure, this project represents a celebration of community spirit, rural regeneration and a shared vision for a greener, more inclusive future.
"We are incredibly grateful to Galway Wind Park for their generous support. This grant has allowed us to bring our vision for a more inclusive, sustainable, community space to life. The new solar powered lighting and enhanced park features will benefit locals and visitors alike for years to come. It's a fantastic boost not just for our environment, but for community well-being, accessibility and cultural life in Leitir Móir.”
Tina Uí Fhlatharta, Cathaoirleach, Coiste Páirc Spraoi Leitir Móir
Projects supported by the Fund
Becoming a carbon – neutral Club - €10,000 awarded
As part of its long-term vision for sustainability, Rahoon Newcastle GAA Club, one of Galway’s oldest GAA clubs with a strong focus on Camogie and Hurling, has taken a major step towards carbon neutrality and energy independence by installing Solar Photovoltaic (PV) panels on the roof of its clubhouse.
With high energy demands, the club set out to reduce both its energy costs and environmental impact. The goal being to not only becoming carbon neutral GAA club, but to lead by example, sparking important conversations in local homes and encouraging other clubs and community groups to consider how they too can take meaningful action to reduce their carbon footprint.
This initiative demonstrates that renewable energy can be achievable at the grassroots level. Solar PV systems are for long term savings, protect against rising energy costs, and help future proof vital community spaces. Beyond financial returns, the environmental impact is tangible and measurable, building climate resilience from the ground up. This investment reflects the clubs deep commitment to environmental responsibility while providing lasting financial savings and community benefits.
"Installing solar panels was about more than saving money, it was about leading by example. We're showing our players, supporters, and the wider community that sustainability and sport go hand in hand.”
Robert Keane, finance committee, Rahoon Newcastle GAA Club
Projects supported by the Fund
Enhancing community parks - €10,000 Awarded
Recreational spaces can be vital for local communities. They provide a healthy space for residents of all ages to gather and enjoy the local nature. The well utilised site in Oughterard, Galway had not had significant investment for over 15 years. To ensure the facilities continue to meet the needs of future generations the volunteer committee established an ambitious enhancement plan to create an improved multi-generational site. The playpark has been enhanced with a new zipline which should last for 20 years, the walking paths have been resurfaced so that they can be accessed by all ability levels and a new tennis facility is being created to provide sports facilities for all ages and abilities. The new facilities will benefit 6,000 residents
"Making Corribdale Park safe for use wouldn’t have been possible without funding from the Galway Wind Park Community Fund.”
Gerry Gibbons, Secretary, Corribdale Grounds Committee