€883,000 in Funding Available for Community Climate Action Projects

Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council (dlr) is pleased to announce the opening of Phase 2 of the Community Climate Action Programme, with applications accepted from 20 October – 15 December.

Through this programme, dlr will provide funding to local community groups and organisations interested in developing capital projects that address the challenge of climate change. Supported by the Department of Climate, Energy, and the Environment, the programme empowers communities to take meaningful climate action at the local level.

Cllr Jim Gildea, Cathaoirleach of Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council, said:

“The Community Climate Action Programme represents a significant investment of €883,000 in Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown and offers a unique opportunity for local communities to access financial support while taking meaningful climate action in their own areas.

“Climate change knows no boundaries — it affects us all, and addressing it requires collaboration, inclusivity, and meaningful engagement. Our community groups are real drivers of creative and inclusive climate action across our county, and their leadership is essential in helping us build a more sustainable future.”

Eligible Projects

Community groups can apply for funding to support projects in five key areas:

• Community Energy – Improving energy efficiency or promoting renewable energy use
• Travel – Encouraging sustainable travel options
• Shopping and Recycling – Reducing waste and increasing recycling rates
• Food and Waste – Tackling food waste and promoting local food production
• Local Climate and Environmental Action – Broad initiatives that protect the environment and address climate change

Who Can Apply?

To be eligible, applicants must:

• Be a not-for-profit organisation
• Operate within the Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown area
• Be registered with a Public Participation Network (PPN) or affiliated with collectives such as The Wheel, Tidy Towns, or other community groups with a formal governance structure (e.g., Articles of Association or Constitution, AGM minutes)

Funding Available

The programme offers 100% funding for approved projects across three scales:

• Small scale: under €20,000
• Medium scale: €20,001 to €50,000
• Large scale: €50,001 to €100,000 

Frank Curran, Chief Executive of Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council, added:

“The transition to a climate neutral economy will impact all of us, and it is vital that we work together to achieve it. Community-led projects show how every group can play a role — not only in reducing emissions, but in creating warmer, more energy-efficient buildings; improving travel options; building more liveable towns and cities; encouraging sustainable consumer choices; and ensuring a healthier environment for future generations.

“The Community Climate Action Programme empowers local organisations to take action that supports our Climate Action Plan 2024–2029 and helps move our county — and Ireland — closer to becoming a climate resilient and carbon neutral society by 2050.”

Building on Phase 1 Success

Phase 1 of the programme supported 28 diverse community-led projects across Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown, demonstrating the creativity and commitment of local groups. These included the creation of a community cargo bike library by The Bike Hub, solar panel installations in Meadowvale Tennis Club and Wayside Celtic Football Club, energy efficiency upgrades and solar panel installations at Dundrum Methodist Church, and the development of vibrant community gardens in areas like Sallynoggin and Rockfield Park. These projects not only help reduce emissions but also fostered stronger, more sustainable communities.

Community groups inspired by the success of Phase 1 are strongly encouraged to apply for Phase 2 of the programme. Whether you're interested in renewable energy, sustainable transport, community gardening, or reducing waste, funding is available to help bring your ideas to life.

How to Apply

Applications for the Community Climate Action Programme can be made through the Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council submit portal from 9am on Monday, 20 October and will remain open until Monday, 15 December at 5pm. Applicants will be provided help and support throughout the application process and further support will be given to successful groups during delivery of their projects.

Interested community groups are strongly encouraged to contact the Community Climate Action Officer at climate@dlrcoco.ie to discuss their project ideas before submitting an application.

Information Webinar

To assist with the application process, dlr will be hosting an online webinar on Wednesday, 23 October at 7pm. This session will provide an overview of the programme, guidance on the application process, and an opportunity for Q&A.

If you are interested in attending the webinar please email climate@dlrcoco.ie to receive the link to the webinar.

For full programme details, visit here