Theme

Sustainable Development of the Rural Environment and Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation (Theme 3)

Funding Budget

A budget of €90,000 is available for this targeted call.

Maximum Grant

Up to €23,000.00 per project, covering a maximum rate of 75% for community capital costs.

EOI Deadline

4pm, 20th October 2025, for the submission of Expression of Interest forms.

Promotional graphic for the Offaly Local Development Company LEADER Targeted Call 2025 for Rural Environment Theme Projects. Specifically, a Group Water Scheme Community Call for projects to reduce overheads while addressing climate change. Call opens: 29th September 2025, closes: 20th October 2025. Full details are available at offalyldc.ie.

Call Overview and Invitation

Offaly Local Development Company invites Expression of Interest from Community/Voluntary Groups Group Water Schemes who are struggling with raising energy costs and want to reduce overheads while addressing climate change.

The call falls under Theme 3: Sustainable Development of the Rural Environment and Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation.

Several group water schemes in Offaly have undergone energy audits, which identified a shared need to reduce their reliance on conventional energy sources. A key recommendation from the audits is the installation of solar panels across a number of community-owned group water schemes. With energy costs continuing to rise, this initiative is essential for lowering operational expenses while also contributing to climate change mitigation.

Detailed Call Criteria

Programme Theme and Rationale

The call operates under Theme 3: Sustainable Development of the Rural Environment and Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation. The sub-theme is Sub Theme: 3a Sustainable Development of the Rural Environment.

The rationale is to address the need for group water schemes to reduce their reliance on conventional energy sources and lower operational expenses, which is critical while also contributing to climate change mitigation.

Budget and Grant Aid Structure

The total Budget for this Targeted Call is €90,000.

The Maximum Level of Funding available per project is Up to €23,000.00.

The Minimum Level of Funding is €1,250.00.

The Maximum Rates of grant aid provided is 75% for community projects (capital).

Eligible Projects and Target Groups

This initiative will provide support for capital costs associated with reducing energy costs in group water schemes, such as the installation of solar panel systems.

The Target Groups are Group Water Schemes co-operatives, Community/Voluntary groups, and Networks.

The Geographic Area is All of Co. Offaly; however, priority will be given to ensure Communities who have not accessed LEADER funding across the County.

Application Timeline and Contact Information

The call is open for Expression of Interest forms on 29th September 2025.

The Closing date for receipt of Stage 1: Expression of Interest (EOI) is 4pm, 20th October 2025.

Projects will be selected based on submission of fully completed applications and supporting documentation. All successful EOIs will be invited to submit a full application for consideration for LEADER funding.

To request more information and the Expression of Interest Form, please email: info@offalyldc.ie.

Your Local Catalyst for Growth

At Offaly Local Development Company, we bring deep local insight, dedicated support, and proven expertise to foster sustainable development across our communities. If you or your community group are seeking support or funding for projects that align with the goals of Sustainable Development and Climate Change Mitigation, please contact our dedicated team.

Call us for inquiry : Monday to Thursday: 9 am – 5 pm, Friday 9 am – 4pm.

057 9352467

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