Over 28 community groups in Laois gathered to mark the launch Phase two of the Community Climate Action Programme fund in Abbeyleix. 

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The launch took place on Thursday October 23 at Abbeyleix vitality hub, with 37 members representing 28 groups across Laois in attendance.

The fund, which is now open for applications, has €465,000 available for Laois community groups to take climate action. 

Funding through the Department of Climate, Energy and the Environment is available across Ireland to support local groups in taking positive climate action for their communities.

Successful applicants will receive 100% funding to deliver their projects within an 18-month timeframe.

The Fund invites projects addressing five themes, including community energy, sustainable travel, food and waste, circular economy projects, and biodiversity.

This diversity of themes encourages a rounded approach to climate action including reducing greenhouse gas emissions, using less non-renewable resources, and nature positive projects.

“You are all here this evening because you are active in your community, and you want to take positive climate action," said  Karen Moore, Community Climate Action Officer at Laois County Council.

"My role is to help you with that so whether you have plans and you want to get them actioned using this funding opportunity or your group do not know where to start, please work with me," she said.

"For groups that are unsure as to how they can involve some of the project themes in their application, collaboration with other community groups in your area could be key. For help with the application, there will be a “how-to” video to take applicants through it step by step," Ms Moore finished.

Attendees also heard from an awarded group from Phase 1 of this funding - Abbeyleix Park Development Committee (APDC), who were among the 16 groups in Laois awarded funding under Phase 1 in 2024.

Mark Clancy, a committee member of APDC who project managed their Phase 1 Community Climate Action Programme funded project. presented on his groups experience.

“The application process itself was straight forward but one important thing is to talk with Karen about any questions you have especially at project development stage to ensure that what your group proposes is eligible," he said.

"Our Club has seen enormous benefits from this fund, including more cycling to the park and energy savings with smart controls and solar energy," Mr Clancy shared.

Suzanne Dempsey, Climate Action Coordinator, Laois County Council gave advice too.

“For groups applying with an energy project for a community building, ensure you have an energy audit to focus your application on what needs to be done next for the building," she said.

"Best practice is that a building has “fabric first” works undertaken for energy conservation such as insulation, before looking at energy supply like solar PV. And for solar projects a site visit by contractors that are quoting will ensure the panel number supplies the buildings usage needs and that the roof is structurally sound for the panels.”

Applications are now open online at Laois.ie and will close Monday, December 8th 2025 at 4.30 pm.