OLDC awards over €76,500 to five Group Water Schemes in Offaly

OFFALY Local Development Company (OLDC) has confirmed its funding support for over €76,500 to five group water schemes across County Offaly under the recent targeted call aimed at strengthening rural water infrastructure and promoting sustainability.

The successful schemes have secured funding to support key improvement works which includes the installation of solar panels. This investment will help reduce energy costs, improve operational efficiency and enhance the long-term sustainability of group water schemes serving rural communities across the county.

OLDC worked closely with local groups throughout the application process, providing advice and support to ensure strong and well-prepared applications. Funded under The Leader Rural Development Programme 2023-2027, the targeted call focused on addressing specific challenges faced by group water schemes, with an emphasis on climate action measures and energy efficiency.

Speaking on the announcement, Roisin Lennon, CEO, Offaly Local Development Company said “The funding represents an important step in supporting community-led solutions”. Roisin noted that “investing in renewable energy, such as solar power, will help future-proof group water schemes while delivering environmental and economic benefits for local communities”.

The five approved schemes, Clareen Group Water Scheme, Killeigh, Cloneygowan and Killurine and Meelaghans Water Scheme CLG , Tubber Water CLG, Eglish Rath & Dromcullen Group Water Scheme CLG and Ballingar Group water Scheme will now move forward to the next stage of project development and implementation, with the solar panel installations expected to contribute to reduced running costs and increased resilience.

Offaly Local Development Company continues to support community groups and rural initiatives through a range of development programmes and targeted funding opportunities.

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