A Community Benefit Fund (CBF) is a government‑mandated fund linked to RESS (Renewable Electricity Support Scheme) solar projects. These funds provide long‑term financial support to communities located near renewable energy developments.
Every RESS‑supported solar project contributes to a CBF at a minimum rate of €2 per MWh of electricity generated. Because this contribution continues for 15 years, communities receive predictable, stable support throughout the operational life of the project.
support communities?
Funding continues for 15 years from the project’s commercial operation date, creating stable and predictable support for local communities. The fund supports local community projects, prioritising not‑for‑profit organisations and initiatives aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
- Develops and delivers the project
- Appoints the Fund Administrator
- Reports annually on outcomes
- Oversees overall governance
- Supports the Fund Committee
- Develops the funding strategy
- Implements committee decisions
- Ensures governance compliance
- Provides volunteers for committees
- Submits funding applications
- Delivers approved local projects
- Benefits from funded activity
- Includes Developer, Administrator and Community representatives
- Sets funding goals and strategy
- Reviews and approves applications
- Operates under RESS governance
The Community Benefit Fund (CBF) is designed to support local communities located near RESS‑supported solar farm projects. The process is transparent, structured and aligned with national guidelines for community funding.
Appoint Administrator
The developer first appoints an independent Fund Administrator to oversee the process. This step ensures governance and compliance from the start.
Create the Fund Committee
Next, a Committee is formed. It includes community representatives, the developer and the administrator. As a result, local voices are part of every decision.
Scope the Area and Collaborate
The Committee then identifies community needs, meets local groups and gathers insights. This collaboration helps shape meaningful funding priorities.
Develop the Fund Strategy
After scoping, the Committee sets the fund’s strategy, eligibility criteria and objectives. This creates a clear roadmap for the funding round.
Set Up the Application Hub
The administrator creates the online hub, including application forms and guidance documents. This makes the process simple and accessible.
Set Up the Application Hub
The administrator creates the online hub, including application forms and guidance documents. This makes the process simple and accessible.
Advertise the Fund
The fund is then advertised across local channels so all eligible groups are aware and encouraged to apply.
Application Process
Community groups submit their funding applications through the online portal. This step begins the formal review.
Review and Assessment
The Committee reviews every application using agreed criteria. Therefore, all decisions remain fair, consistent and transparent.
Agree and Award Grants
Approved projects receive funding based on impact, alignment with community needs and available budget.
Fund Administration and Reporting
Finally, the administrator manages payments and reporting, while funded groups deliver their projects and submit progress updates.
This step‑by‑step process ensures that funding is fair, transparent and impactful, supporting long‑term community wellbeing and projects aligned with Ireland’s renewable energy goals.
See which community funds are open and check your eligibility.