Wicklow County Council has announced the launch of the second round of the Community Climate Action Programme, offering €646,000 in funding to assist community, voluntary, and non-profit groups in delivering local climate and biodiversity projects across the county.
This new round of funding, supported by the Department of Climate, Energy, and the Environment, will provide grants of up to €100,000 per project to support local climate actions aimed at reducing carbon emissions, enhancing biodiversity and building community resilience.
Applications will be accepted from October 20th, 2025, to December 15th, 2025.
Following the success of the first round, in which 19 community groups in Wicklow implemented projects including solar panel installations, energy efficiency upgrades, bike facilities, and biodiversity initiatives, this new programme will continue to empower local communities to take meaningful climate action.
Cllr Melanie Corrigan, Cathaoirleach of Wicklow County Council, described the programme as “a shining example of community innovation and leadership in climate action. The Community Climate Action Programme shows what’s possible when local people come together to take ownership of their future. The first round of projects made a real difference, reducing energy costs, cutting emissions, and greening our communities. This next round will build on that momentum and help future-proof Wicklow’s communities for generations to come”, said Cllr. Corrigan.
Emer O’Gorman, Chief Executive of Wicklow County Council, welcomed the continued partnership between the Council and the Department in supporting grassroots initiatives. “Local communities are at the heart of Ireland’s climate transition. By providing practical funding and local authority support, this programme enables projects that deliver real, measurable results; whether that’s reducing energy use, supporting biodiversity, or encouraging sustainable travel. I’m proud of the leadership shown by Wicklow communities and look forward to seeing even more inspiring projects emerge through this second round.”
Theresa O’Brien, Director of Services, highlighted the importance of collaboration and support for applicants. “Our dedicated Community Climate Action Officer will be available to guide groups through the application process and help shape strong, achievable projects. This funding represents a significant opportunity for local organisations to make lasting environmental improvements and strengthen community resilience in the face of climate change.”
Funding will be available for projects under five key themes:
- Community Energy
- Travel
- Food and Waste
- Shopping and Recycling
- Local Climate and Environmental Action
Small projects can receive up to €20,000, medium projects between €20,000 and €50,000, and large-scale projects up to €100,000. Funded projects will run for 18 months.
Applications will be accepted starting from October 20th, 2025, by contacting the Climate Action Team at ccap@wicklowcoco.ie
For further information, please visit https://www.wicklow.ie/Living/Services/Environment/Climate-Action-and-Biodiversity/Community-Climate-Action-Fund
Pictured above from left to right are Julie Sammiller (Community Climate Action Officer), Theresa O’Brien (Director of Service), Emer O’Gorman (Chief Executive, Wicklow County Council), Cllr. Melanie Corrigan (Cathaoirleach of Wicklow County Council), Cllr. Erika Doyle (Cathaoirleach of Climate Action Strategic Policy Committee), Sarah McCullough (Senior Executive Officer), and Mark Costello (Climate Action Coordinator). Photo credit: Michael Kelly.