A range of community projects in the Brookeborough Knocks, and Cooneen areas have received a funding boost from the Teiges Mountain Wind Farm Fund. The fund, established by leading wind farm owner and operator Energia Group, aims to ensure that the benefits of renewable energy extend beyond environmental gains to positively impact the local community.
Administered by the Fermanagh Trust, County Fermanagh’s community foundation, Energia’s Teiges Mountain Wind Farm Fund offers grants to community projects within a 5 km radius of the wind farm. Recently they have awarded grants to a variety of local groups, enhancing educational opportunities, community engagement, and wellbeing initiatives.
One of the key beneficiaries is St Mary’s Primary School, which has received a grant to enhance both outdoor and indoor learning environments. The funding will support resources aimed at improving numeracy and STEM education, alongside the development of an after-school cookery club. In a previous funding round, Friends of St Mary’s used a grant from the wind farm fund to redevelop the pond area, allowing children to enjoy pond dipping and observation activities in the newly improved space.
Principal Sheila Mullin expressed her gratitude for the funding, stating: “This recent grant will have a significant impact on our pupils, providing them with hands-on learning experiences that enhance their academic and practical skills. The investment in STEM and numeracy resources, alongside our cookery club, will help to foster a love of learning and encourage creativity.”
Other successful applicants include Aghavea Mothers Union, which will use its funding for activities and equipment, while Brookeborough Women’s Group secured support for social and educational activities, along with a laptop for committee use. Cooneen Pipe Band received funding to help young people develop musical skills in bagpipes and drums.
Brookeborough and District Community Association was awarded funding to refurbish the Station House kitchen. Brookeborough Ladies Football Club will use its grant to support U13 to Senior level activities, covering running costs, travel, and equipment. Brookeborough Controlled Primary School will run an iPad photography course, lending devices to disadvantaged families.
Additional grants were awarded to Brookeborough Wednesday Club, Brookeborough Youth Club, and St Mary’s Bowling Club for equipment and activities. Brookeborough & District Playgroup received support for ICT equipment and an outdoor seating area, while Cooneen Community Development Association secured funding for core costs and essential hall maintenance.
Rosy Billingham, Community Engagement Manager with Energia Renewables, highlighted the company’s commitment to supporting local initiatives: “We are delighted to see such a diverse range of community groups benefiting from the Teiges Mountain Wind Farm Fund. These projects are a testament to the strength and vibrancy of the local community, and we are proud to play a role in helping them thrive.”
The next closing date for applications is 6th November 2025. For more information on how to apply CLICK HERE
Photographs © Lorcan Doherty Photography