£1 million in community grants on offer in Aghanloo

Gaelectric are constructing a 42MW wind farm at Dunbeg, near the A37 Broad Road and around half-way between Limavady and Coleraine.

The community benefit fund will be administered on behalf of Gaelectric by the ‘Community Foundation for Northern Ireland’ and will provide grants of between £500 to £5,000 to local community and voluntary groups with projects in the Aghanloo area. Gaeletric say they have set aside a total of £1 million for the 25-year lifespan of the project.

Discussing the Fund, Patrick McClughan from Gaelectric, said: “The 42MW Dunbeg wind farm represents a total investment of £58million and will be one of the most significant wind farm developments on the island ofIreland. It is due to be fully operational by mid 2014 and will generate sufficient renewable power to meet the electricity demand of 24,000 homes.

“As part of our ongoing commitment to delivering local community benefits it is important that the local communities close to the Dunbeg wind farm have the opportunity to share in the social and economic benefits of this renewable energy development, and we would encourage local community and voluntary groups to apply to the Fund.”

Mr McClughan adds: “The Dunbeg Community Fund will provide grants that support community cohesion and engagement; energy efficiency and sustainability; are of a social, cultural or sporting benefit for the local community; assist in training and education; or have an environmental or economic benefit.”