Phase 2 Community Benefit Fund
Oweninny Power 2 DAC was successful in the Renewable Energy Support Scheme (RESS-1) auction and will make an annual contribution of €2/MWh (of Loss- Adjusted Metered Generation) into a Community Benefit Fund for the duration of the RESS Contract.
The fund value will vary each year as it will be calculated based on the annual output of the wind farm. There are a number of mandatory requirements that Oweninny Power 2 DAC must apply to the Community Benefit Fund – including conditions around distribution of the Funds. For example, a minimum of 40% of the funds shall be paid to not-for-profit community enterprises whose primary focus or aim is the promotion of initiatives towards the delivery of the UN Sustainable Development Goals, in particular, Goals 4, 7, 11 and 13, including education, energy efficiency, sustainable energy and climate action initiatives.
It is envisaged that this element of the Fund will equate to approximately €200,000 per annum for 15 years.
This Fund will open in the coming months to individuals, and not-for-profit groups such as community and voluntary groups, charities, social enterprises and clubs and societies. All applicants that are entities should ensure they are appropriately constituted.
The Fund Committee will consist of a number of volunteer community representatives, Oweninny Power 2 DAC and the Administrator. More details on the opening of this Fund will be announced shortly.
Phase 1 Community Benefit Fund
The Oweninny Phase 1 Community Benefit Fund Scheme is managed by Mayo County Council, who have established a representative Board of Directors and Evaluation Committee to oversee the Governance of the Fund. Both the board and the evaluation committee have representation from the local community.
Applications are sought annually from clubs, associations, and other groups whose work support community-based initiatives and improvement projects. Applications received are evaluated in line with Mayo County Council’s policy on community benefit contributions required for certain major developments.
For further detailed information email oweninnycbf@mayococo.ie or 094 9064136.
Community Action Plans
Mayo County Council has developed a 5-year strategic plan for the Oweninny Community Benefit Fund. A further six sub area plans have also been developed for:
- Bangor Erris Action Plan
- Bellacorrick Ballymunnelly Action Plan
- Crossmolina Action Plan
- Eskeragh Action Plan
- Keenagh Action Plan
- Moygownagh Action Plan
Further information on the strategic plan is available here.