Local projects in Camarthernshire backed by wind farm community fund

Statkraft’s Alltwalis Wind Farm community benefit fund has backed voluntary groups, social enterprises, sports clubs, and schools with £107,000 of community funding during 2023. Since being established in 2010, over £1.1 million has been distributed to 35 different local causes in the Llanfihangel-ar-Arth area of Carmarthen, with the funding in place for the lifetime of the project.

Alltwalis Wind Farm, which is operated by Statkraft, Europe’s largest generator of renewable energy became operational in 2009, and powers the equivalent of 16,500 homes with clean, home-grown renewable energy. It is sited near the Brechfa Forest, to the north of Carmarthenshire, South Wales. 

The fund aims to contribute towards activities that create a vibrant community including those with a focus on environmental, educational and community improvement projects, including outdoor activities. Projects supported during 2023 include supporting a monthly lunch club at the Tabernacle Chapel in Pencader, solar panel installation at Llandysul Paddlers Canoe Club, supporting the running of the Cylch Meithrin (playgroup) in Llanllwni and Pencader, and funding training equipment to show local people how to use defibrillators.

It is managed independently of Statkraft, led by local residents who meet four times per year to consider applications. Organisations and community groups based within the Llanfihangel-ar-Arth area are eligible to apply for grants from the fund. There are four application periods per year. Closing dates during 2025 are 4 January, 8 March, 7 June, 13 September.

Applicants should contact the fund administrator Meinir Evans on 01559 395 669 or email meinir.evans@btinternet.com for further information. 

Dewi Thomas, Chair, Alltwalis Wind Farm Community Benefit Fund said: “The projects our fund has supported during 2023 show the real difference that can be made by backing local organisations. Some of the youngest and oldest members of our community have benefitted, as well as assets like Alltwalis Community Centre and Llanllwni Church Community Hall, which have received support for their ongoing maintenance.

“By investing in local services, facilities, and organisations, we can make a real difference to the lives of the people who live and work in Llanfihangel-ar-Arth. But we’re always looking for new projects and initiative to support, so I’d urge people to get in touch if they want to discuss their ideas.”

Glyn Griffiths, Statkraft’s Site Manager at Alltwalis, said: “Alltwalis is a tangible example of how our wind farms can directly benefit members of our local community, as well as providing clean, renewable energy to homes across Wales. We’re proud to be able to give something back to our neighbours and support so many worthy causes and initiatives.”