Galway Wind Park Scholarship Fund returns with €50,000 support for local students

^{Two recipients of last year’s Galway Wind Park Scholarship, supported by SSE and Greencoat Renewables.}

– €50,000 in financial support available for third-level students in Connemara –

Applications are now open for the 2025 Galway Wind Park Scholarship Fund, which offers €50,000 in financial support to third-level students from the Connemara region. The deadline for applications is Friday 24 October 2025.

The scholarship is jointly funded by SSE and Greencoat Renewables, co-owners of Galway Wind Park. It provides 50 percent of annual college fees for up to three years, helping students access and progress through higher education.

Since its launch, the programme has supported more than 90 students, making it Ireland’s first and longest-running wind-powered scholarship. Last year alone, 12 scholarships were awarded through the initiative.

The scholarship is open to undergraduate and postgraduate students, studying full-time or part-time, who live within 15 kilometres of Galway Wind Park in Connemara. Eligible students may be attending Atlantic Technological University (ATU), University of Galway, or any other recognised third-level institution across Ireland.

Priority will be given to students pursuing qualifications in STEM subjects and in fields such as sustainability, environmental science, energy, health and safety, and community development.

Vicky Boden, Community Investment Manager at SSE Renewables, said:

“This scholarship is about more than financial support. Every year, we see how it helps students from Connemara take confident steps into third-level education and build careers that contribute to their communities and the wider energy transition. SSE Renewables is proud to continue backing this initiative alongside Greencoat Renewables.”

Patrick Maguire, Investment Manager at Greencoat Renewables, added:

“The Galway Wind Park Scholarship Fund is a long-term investment in people. Supporting students from the local area is one of the most meaningful ways we can contribute to the region’s future. We are excited to see new applicants come forward in 2025 and continue the legacy of this unique programme.”

Applications are assessed by independent panels from University of Galway, ATU, and FORUM Connemara CLG, a local development organisation focused on social and economic progress in the region.

Students can find full details and apply online through their institution or by visiting the Galway Wind Park Scholarship Fund webpage at https://www.sserenewables.com/GalwayFund.