Community groups in the Brookeborough, Knocks and Cooneen areas are being encouraged to apply for funding through the Teiges Mountain Wind Farm Fund, with the latest round of funding now open for applications.
Established by leading wind farm owner and operator Energia Group, the fund aims to ensure that the benefits of renewable energy extend beyond environmental gains to positively impact the local community.
Administered by Fermanagh Trust, the fund provides grants to community projects within a 5 km radius of the Teiges Mountain Wind Farm. Funding can support a wide range of local activities, projects and initiatives that benefit local people, strengthen community connections and create opportunities for people of all ages to get involved.
Previous funding rounds have supported a diverse range of community initiatives across the area, demonstrating the breadth of activities that can benefit from the fund.
Brookeborough Women’s Group used its grant to deliver a programme of recreational, social and educational activities, including wellbeing sessions, flower arranging and craft workshops.
Local music traditions were also supported through grants to Brookeborough Flute Band and Cooneen Pipe Band, providing music tuition for young people in flute, bagpipe and drumming.
Funding has supported children and young families, with Brookeborough Primary School PTFA using its grant to expand its outdoor play area, including a digger-themed construction zone. Tiny Tots Brookeborough Elim and Brookeborough & District Community Playgroup used their grants to purchase new play and learning equipment.
Brookeborough Women’s Group used its grant to deliver a programme of activities, including flower arranging
Community wellbeing, sport and recreation have also benefited from previous funding. Recipients included Colebrooke and Cooneen Mothers Union, Aghavea Mothers Union, Girls Friendly Society Colebrooke/Cooneen, Brookeborough Ladies Football Club, Knocks Grattan’s Hurling Club and Knocks Community Association.
Other previous recipients included Cooneen Coonian Community Development Association, St Mary’s Bowling Club and Knocks Drama Group, supporting social activities, community facilities, sporting costs and youth drama.
Rosy Billingham, Energia Renewables Engagement Manager said “Small grants can make a big difference. We often highlight the strategic impact a large donation makes, supporting community infrastructure projects and new facilities. However, fundraising is hard in any community – and particularly difficult in rural areas. Generosity runs deep but the same small group of people are often asked to give again and again. And that’s where our wind farm community benefit funds can help.”
Commenting on the awards, Lauri McCusker Director of the Fermanagh Trust said “It’s great to see so much community activity taking place across the Brookeborough area. These grants are supporting local groups who are creating opportunities for people of all ages to come together, learn new skills and strengthen community life.”
Closing date for applications is 12 noon Friday 6th November 2026. For more information on the fund and how to apply CLICK HERE or email secretary@fermanaghtrust.org