A new round of capital funding for rural water, for 2027 to 2029, is open now: applications go through your local authority and must reach the Department by 20 November 2026.
Quick facts
- Set-up grant
- 85%, up to €20,000 a house
- Minimum households
- 2
- Subsidy, public source
- Up to €115 a house a year
- Subsidy, private source
- Up to €231 a house a year
- Capital funding deadline
- 20 November 2026
- Handing over to Uisce Éireann
- Two-thirds of members must agree
Setting up a scheme
"You can get a grant to set up a group water scheme, if you and at least 1 other household get together to provide your homes and farms with a water system where none already exists." "Generally, the grant will cover 85% of the cost, with a limit of €20,000 for each house in the scheme." A committee proposes it and the council approves.
Yearly running subsidies
"Up to €115 for each house supplied from a from a public source (Uisce Éireann) Up to €231 for each house supplied from a private source (such as a private well, lake or borehole)". The council approves it each year.
Capital funding 2027 to 2029
The rural water programme funds source protection, treatment, fixing leaks, extensions and handing schemes over to Uisce Éireann. "The Department must get applications for the programme by Friday, 20 November 2026. Late applications are not accepted."
Handing over to Uisce Éireann
Members must hold a meeting and "Get consent from two thirds of the members of the group scheme", then apply to the council with a pipe map. "Your local authority will test the water supply in group water schemes to ensure it is safe to drink. But they are not responsible for maintaining group scheme pipes and filtration systems."
Common questions
How much is the group water scheme grant?
Generally 85% of the cost of setting up a scheme, up to €20,000 for each house.
What is the group water scheme subsidy?
Up to €115 a house a year on a public source, or up to €231 on a private source.
What is the deadline for rural water capital funding?
Applications must reach the Department by Friday 20 November 2026, through your local authority.
Can Uisce Éireann take over our group water scheme?
Yes, if two-thirds of members consent and the scheme meets Uisce Éireann's standards.