Sport Ireland have launched a third phase of the Sports Energy Scheme to support sporting organisations with the rising energy costs associated with the provision of sport e.g., indoor activity in winter, the provision of outdoor floodlighting etc.
Through Local Sports Partnership’s, this phase will target community owned sports facilities which do not currently qualify for TBESS or other Government support schemes through DRCD, Local Authorities etc.
Clubs or facilities affiliated to Sport Ireland recognised National Governing Bodies should access support directly through their NGB, ie GAA, FAI etc.
General cost of living increases such as rising costs in accommodation, rent, rates or labour costs are not eligible. Fuel costs associated with machinery, vehicles, travel or transport do not qualify.
ELIGIBILITY
- The Sports Energy Support Scheme (SESS) will contribute to the increased energy costs associated with providing sporting activity only.
- The Eligibility period will relate to increased costs sustained between September 1st 2022 and July 31st 2023 VS September 1st 2019 – July 31st 2020
- Non Energy related increases are ineligible. These include increased costs in accommodation, rent, rates or labour costs.
- Fuel costs associated with machinery, vehicles, travel or transport do not qualify.
- Pre-existing debts or deficits do not qualify.
- Community Centres who have previously been approved funding under phase 1 and 2 of the Sport Energy Support Scheme are eligible to apply for this phase of the Sport Energy Support Scheme for the period of June 2023 and July 2023 only.
- Energy costs associated with non-sporting activity such as bars, restaurants etc. are not eligible under SESS; however, such trading activity may be eligible for support under the Government’s Temporary Business Energy Support Scheme (TBESS).
- Organisations applying for support must own/lease the sporting facilities or be the primary utility bill payer.
- The Scheme is aimed at supporting Clubs in the Republic of Ireland only.
Please note this does not apply to national facilities/stadiums.
The Scheme will not cover:
- Private/Commercial gyms & sports facilities. These enterprises are eligible to apply for TBESS.
- Local authority facilities.
- School or Third level sports facilities