Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment, Darragh O’Brien, has announced nearly €35 million in new funding to support local authorities in advancing climate action across Ireland. This investment underlines the government’s commitment to empowering communities to transition to a climate-neutral economy and recognizes the critical role local authorities play in delivering place-based climate solutions.
As part of this funding, €30 million will be allocated through the EU Just Transition Fund (EU JTF) for the Midlands region under the START (Supporting a Sustainable Transition through Climate Action for a Resilient Territory) scheme. The programme will enable local authorities in the Midlands JTF territory to implement Climate Action Plan projects and feasibility studies, including renewable energy solutions, energy efficiency upgrades for public and community buildings, sustainable transport initiatives, and the redevelopment of former landfill or community sites into sustainable public amenities. Local authorities will lead project identification, implementation, and partnerships with community groups, NGOs, and other stakeholders.
An additional €4.9 million will support climate action across Ireland. Of this, €2 million is allocated to Cork, Dublin, and Galway under the EU Climate Neutral and Smart Cities Mission to advance city-level climate neutrality by 2030. A €1.5 million fund will assist local authorities in developing Decarbonising Zones, while €2.5 million from the European Regional Development Fund, co-funded by the Department, will support adaptation, biodiversity, and green infrastructure projects in northern and western regions. Climate Action Regional Offices will also receive €2.4 million in 2026, an increase of €400,000, to help local authorities implement plans and share best practices.
The funding builds on previous commitments, including €26.9 million to community climate action projects and the provision of Community Climate Action Officers in each local authority to 2027. Minister O’Brien highlighted that this combined investment will enable hundreds of projects nationwide, empowering local authorities and communities to deliver targeted, practical climate action. Stakeholders including the Eastern and Midland Regional Assembly and Pobal emphasized that the START programme and additional funding will support resilient, sustainable communities and facilitate meaningful, locally-led climate initiatives.
The updated Climate Action Charter will be signed with 31 local authorities, reflecting a whole-of-government approach to climate action. Local authorities will continue to lead delivery of Decarbonising Zones and Community Climate Action Programme initiatives, ensuring projects align with statutory Climate Action Plans while fostering environmental, social, and economic benefits at the local level. This funding package positions Ireland to accelerate community-focused climate action and supports long-term sustainable development.
