Kilkenny communities can profit by going green
A local is urging Kilkenny communities to consider developing renewable energy projects after one scheme in the county received funding of up to €700,000.
Fine Gael TD John Paul Phelan made the call following the first round of funding for the Government’s Renewable Electricity Support Scheme(RESS).
The Ballytobin Solar scheme was one of just seven initiatives across the country to be included in the RESS.
Deputy Phelan said: “This scheme provides a great opportunity for communities to play their part in developing sustainable community energy projects, supporting rural regeneration, social cohesion, capacity-building and community development.
“A new Community Enabling Framework will assist and support communities through the complex process of electricity generation and, through the support of the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI), communities will receive a range of technical and financial supports at the various stages in the life-cycle of a renewable project, including trusted advisors who will work closely with communities.
“Communities will also benefit from good practice principles, which will ensure they benefit from funds generated by other renewable energy projects in their locality,” Mr Phelan (pictured below) added.
