Group water schemes set their own charges in respect of non-domestic connections. These are generally based on meter-based usage. In addition, schemes have a 'new connections' fee set by the local GWS Board/Committee and agreed by the membership.
In addition to these sources of income - and to ensure equity & fairness for the rural water sector - two subsidies are provided through the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage (DHLGH), an operational subsidy payment and capital funding towards specific measures under the Rural Water Programme. The drawdown of subsidies and capital grants is processed through the relevant local authority.
Operational subsidy
- Operational Subsidy - Circular L2-18
- DHLGH subsidy: Terms & Conditions
- NFGWS - Guidance on subsidy terms & conditions
- Information newsletter for GWS members on subsidy entitlement
Capital Grant-aid
The Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, James Browne TD, and Minister of State with responsibility for Nature, Heritage and Biodiversity, Christopher O’Sullivan TD announced a new Capital Funding Programme for the Rural Water Sector 2027–2029 on 27 July 2026.
The new programme will support group water schemes and other rural water initiatives through eight funding measures focused on improving drinking water quality, infrastructure resilience, water conservation, source protection and community connections. It forms the next phase of the government’s Multi-annual Rural Water Programme (MARWP).
The Framework for the CFP for RWS 2027-2029 can be found here:
Additional information:
An NFGWS summary document giving a quick guide to the application process is available below:
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MARWP 2024-2026 Funding Announcements
23 July 2025:
Minister Browne announces €74 million capital investment funding for rural water services.
Full details of the projects approved for funding and the local authority concerned.
06 November 2024:
Minister O’Brien announces capital investment funding for rural water services
MARWP Projects approved funding in November 2024
Additional information:
- Circular L1/24 - Re: Multi-annual Rural Water Programme 2024-2026 Applications for Funding
- Framework for Multi-Annual Rural Water Programme 2024-2026
An NFGWS Framework summary document is available below:
The key principles that underpin the 2024-2026 Framework can be read below:
